but I have read some - which compared typing speeds on Dvorak and QWERTY
keyboards. Essentially, the conclusion was that maximum speeds are
independent of keyboard type. Those who learned on one type could rarely
match their top speeds on the other type; once you've learned on a QWERTY
keyboard it is hard to switch and vice-versa. That said, it doesn't make
ANY sense to introduce Dvorak keyboards, as it is very unlikely that your
students will encounter them outside your school.
In the end it is a moot point whether Dvorak is better. The Sony Beta
recorders were better than VHS, too. Not sure if that is a subconscious
hint to a long-ago thread about whether keyboards are going the way of
VHS...
BTW I agree with David that we have an obligation to teach them correct
techniques, at least up until ___ grade. My school runs through sixth, so I
push my students to get it 'right'.
Dan Berger
-----Original Message-----
From: A forum for independent school educators
[mailto:ISED-L@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU] On Behalf Of Dave Baker
Sent: Friday, November 20, 2009 2:28 PM
To: ISED-L@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU
Subject: Re: Is Typing Speed Important Anymore
OK, maybe I'm too old school, but don't we have an obligation as educators
to teach them techniques that will not allow them to meet minimum
standards, but also grow beyond the basics. Can these students with "nose
and elbow" reach 60 or 70 words per minute?
Yes, there is the Dvorak keyboard that is designed to reach 100+ wpm
speeds, but there are significant barriers to adoption.
.02
Dave
David Baker
Mount Tamalpais School
Dean of Technology
Math Department Chair
http://www.mttam.org/
dbaker@mttam.org
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