This article reports on a design-based research study centered on the conception and the assessment of the "Pyrates" application. This online serious game aims at introducing Python programming to K-12 students while easing the transition from block-based to text-based languages. After we present the various aspects underlying the…

Projected employment reports indicate that most new jobs will involve occupations in which computer skills are essential, but surveys reveal that many people with a disability currently lack these computer skills. One way to address the gap is to prepare students while they are attending primary and secondary school. The National Business…

A summary of keyboarding as an increasingly essential teaching area in today's computer-oriented society is presented. Following a section defining keyboarding (the use of a typewriter-like board to enter information into technological equipment), the document discusses the need for this skill, when instruction should begin, what skill level…

This manual is intended for use in teaching keyboarding at the elementary, secondary, or postsecondary level. It presents techniques for teaching basic keyboarding skills. The manual is divided into six sections. The first section defines keyboarding, describes who should learn to keyboard, discusses who should teach keyboarding skills, and…

The purpose of this study was to examine the status and trends of instruction in both keyboarding and speech recognition among public schools in a Midwestern state. A survey was sent to 490 members of the state business education association who returned 213 (62.5%) usable responses. The subjects represented schools from kindergarten to college.…

A survey of 1,000 business professionals received 527 replies concerning the importance of good keyboarding skills. Respondents recommended that keyboarding instruction begin in elementary school and that schools of business should consider establishing keyboarding training sessions within companies. (JOW)

This curriculum guide was developed to help teach keyboarding skills for computer use at all educational levels, especially in Nebraska. Following a position paper that explores the rationale for teaching keyboarding, the curriculum guide is organized in eight units that cover the following topics: equipment; technique; keyboarding; formatting;…

A literature search identified 14 studies that were examined concerning keyboarding and computer anxiety. Although research on the relationship between keyboarding skills and computer anxiety is scarce, studies are being conducted to measure the effects of basic keyboarding skills on increased productivity. In addition, research is being performed…

This curriculum guide was developed for an advanced half-credit course in a series of two that deal with keyboarding skills for high schools and elementary grades in Manitoba. The course is designed to improve a student's ability to manipulate a keyboard by reinforcing confidence and improving the functional skill level. The guide includes the…

Consists of five articles on the preparation of business education teachers. Topics include (1) a model computer institute for teachers, (2) keyboarding instruction, (3) keyboarding for prospective managers, (4) formatting procedures, and (5) attendance at professional meetings. (CH)

This curriculum guide was developed for an introductory half-credit course in a series of two that deal with keyboarding skills for high schools and elementary grades in Manitoba. The course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the correct techniques of using a keyboard. The guide includes the following components: (1) an…

This document contains five issues of the Michigan Business Education Association (MBEA) Today newsletter. In addition to news items and conference announcements, each issue contains several articles that cover concerns in business education. Issue 1 includes "A Program for Changing Times" (Hunter, Sullivan); "State Update"…

Focusing on the use of word processing software programs as instructional tools for students learning writing composition, this collection includes 14 research articles and position papers, 16 reports on lesson ideas and projects, 5 articles on keyboarding, and 18 product reviews. These materials relate to teaching writing through the process…

The author provides 30 questions that teachers or instructional materials selectors should consider when choosing keyboarding courseware for classroom use. (CH)

Discusses the importance of teaching keyboarding skills at an early age. Suggests that these skills be taught in the language arts curriculum by a business education teacher and should be an integral part of all the curriculum at all levels. (JOW)