Keyboarding differs from typewriting in the basic purpose it serves. Keyboarding is the act of entering alphanumeric data on a keyboard of information processing equipment for the purpose of obtaining or communicating information. The target populations for keyboarding are those whose typewriting skill will be primary to their vocations, those whose skill will be secondary to their vocations, and those who will use typewriting for personal use. A consensus among educators is that keyboarding skill development should take place at middle and high school levels and not be limited to business students. Business teachers should be responsible for the teaching of keyboarding through microcomputer course offerings. Software for keyboarding skill development is available, although teachers can develop materials from typewriting textbooks. Advantages of teaching keyboarding with microcomputers include immediate feedback, lack of embarrassment when mistakes are made, lack of subjective teacher evaluation, flexibility of scheduling, and freeing the teacher from time-consuming tasks. The growing use of keyboards in business, industry, government, and education has made efficient use of them a basic skill in American society. (Competencies to be met by the student learning to keyboard are listed.) (YLB)