How do you convince 6-8 graders to not look at the keyboard when they are learning how to type?
What I did was to put a shoebox over the keyboard, actually a typewriter.
Today there are many computer games that teaches typing. Student gets more points if they type the correct letters in time.
To convince 6-8 graders to not look at the keyboard when learning to type, you can employ a combination of educational methods, interactive activities, and ongoing encouragement. Here's a step-by-step approach:
1. Explain the importance: Start by explaining why it is crucial to develop touch typing skills without looking at the keyboard. Emphasize that it will significantly improve their typing speed, accuracy, and efficiency in the long run.
2. Demonstrate techniques: Show the students various techniques to develop touch typing skills. Explain proper finger placement on the keyboard and how to position their hands so they can swiftly reach all the keys. Encourage them to place their fingers on the home row (ASDF for the left hand and JKL; for the right hand), which provides a reference point.
3. Provide resources and tools: Give the students access to online typing tutorials, games, or software that specifically focus on touch typing. Recommend reputable websites or typing programs that offer structured lessons with interactive exercises and progress tracking.
4. Practice exercises: Assign regular practice sessions to help students strengthen their muscle memory and develop familiarity with the keyboard layout. Start with simple exercises that focus on specific letter combinations and gradually increase the difficulty level as their skills progress.
5. Offer time limits: Encourage students to practice typing without looking at the keyboard by setting regular time limits. For instance, challenge them to complete a typing task within a specific time frame while trying to keep their eyes off the keyboard as much as possible. This builds concentration and helps them wean off their reliance on visual cues.
6. Provide visual reminders: Display visual reminders near their computer stations, such as a poster or a printout of the keyboard layout. This can serve as a quick reference guide and help them remember where each key is positioned.
7. Continuous reinforcement: Regularly remind students during typing exercises or activities to keep their eyes focused on the screen rather than the keyboard. Provide positive feedback and praise as they make progress, reinforcing the benefits of touch typing.
8. Peer collaboration: Encourage students to work in pairs or small groups during typing activities. Peer support can motivate each other to not look at the keyboard and make the learning process more enjoyable.
Remember, consistency is vital. By implementing these strategies consistently, students will gradually develop their touch typing skills and be less inclined to look at the keyboard.