Not too long ago, business education teachers gave formal instruction in typewriting at the high school level.  At that time, the skill of typing was a necessity for certain occupations.  Today, efficient keyboard and computer operation is a necessary skill for the majority of ccupations. Keyboarding is an expected tool for communication throughout one's life. It is considered as important a skill as being able to print and write well.

With the widespread use of computers in schools and homes, keyboarding instruction has moved down to the elementary grades. Younger and younger children are becoming fluent computer users and it is important for them to learn proper keyboarding techniques early so that they do not develop bad habits that are very hard to break.

There are a large number of computer users who claim their system of hunt-andpeck is as good as touch typing.  When tested, these individuals are often surprised to learn how inefficiently they type. Touch typing allows you to key much faster and you don\'t tire as quickly. This skill comes after the fingers have learned to operate the keys automatically with speed and a high level of accuracy.

The fingers move without hesitation when they know where to go.  Learning to use the keyboard competently should be viewed as learning to use a tool that assists a student to work in the technological framework of the

21st century. It is a natural extension of the writing process. All students will benefit greatly from knowing that they can write, edit their work, and communicate easily with others while using the keyboard.

Good keyboarding skills will aid students as they write, do research, solve problems, communicate with others and achieve competence throughout their educational career.