Frequently Asked Questions; Why Can't I Use The Backspace Key When Using Keywords; Why Is There So Much Repetition Of Words In The Practice Passages; Why Are The Passages So Easy - Alphasmart NEO2 SmartApplet User Manual

F r e q u e n t l y A s k e d Q u e s t i o n s

Why can't I use the backspace key when using KeyWords?

Why is there so much repetition of words in t he practice passages?
Why are t he passages so easy?
Why is t he sequence of key introduction so di fferent from what I am used to
in other typi ng programs?
Why do the student s learn the ASKL keys first?
Backspace is disabled because keyboarding research shows that students
need to learn the patterns of keystrokes uninterrupted by immediate
corrections. Disabling backspace benefits students because they can
concentrate on speed, not on correcting errors.
Research has shown that speed and confidence increase more readily if
simple words are used and are repeated often. KeyWords offsets the
repetition by providing text with humor, poetry, and rhythmic chants.
Easy practice material develops speed and typing fluency more effectively,
giving the student a feeling of confidence and a sense of success. Though the
passages are easy, they provide practice in all the needed key patterns.
Many other typing programs are based on 1950s typing instruction.
KeyWords designers sensed the need for a more language-based program,
one that reinforces the development of a reading and writing vocabulary as it
teaches typing.
The content of the passages is based on word list analysis. High frequency
words that help develop reading and writing vocabulary and spelling skills
were chosen for the practice material. KeyWords maximizes kinesthetic and
linguistic patterns, which is why it is the most efficient and enjoyable way to
learn to touch-type.
Two design principles distinguish KeyWords from all other keyboarding
programs: the application of kinesthetic (tactile, sensory) patterning and the
application of linguistic (language) patterns in all skill-building activities.
When students are learning the home row keys in the first lesson, they type
as. Students are typing enough on the left side of the home row keys to ensure
that their fingers are where they belong. Students are also using two fingers
K W
E Y O R D S

Frequently Asked Questions

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