In today’s tech-savvy world, the hype around Artificial Intelligence and the gradual rise of Web 3.0 can sometimes overshadow the importance of touch typing and digital skills as valuable talents.

 Microsoft’s Research Findings (2014)

– Nearly a third of British employers are hesitant to hire individuals who cannot touch type.

– 41% of employees, 38% of students, and 29% of parents feel that schools and universities don’t emphasize typing skills enough.

– 38% of employers have recognized typing as a skill that enhances productivity.

– 45% of British workers lack knowledge of ergonomic typing, leading to typing-related injuries, such as Repetitive Strain Injury.

Recent Findings and Reports

– Microsoft’s ‘New Future of Work Report’ in 2022 emphasizes the increasing importance of technology in the workplace.

– The ‘Closing the Digital Skills Divide’ report by the National Skills Coalition and the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta in 2021 revealed that 92% of jobs across industries require digital skills, including typing.

Touch typing isn’t just about hitting keys; it’s about boosting productivity and cognitive automaticity, where individuals can perform tasks without thinking about them. Similar to riding a bike, touch typing becomes second nature after years of practice. It allows individuals to engage in writing and note-taking without getting stuck on the typing process, ultimately enhancing efficiency and output, benefiting coders, programmers, and essay writers.

It’s a skill that should be ingrained in our digital native generation. They need to understand that not every device can be operated through touch, a pinch, or a voice command. Recognising the importance of touch typing, I have taken proactive steps to incorporate mandatory touch-typing lessons from years 5 to 6 this term with the view of expanding this to years 1 to 6 from August 2024, with a focus on proficiency by age 11. We will be using web-based software Typing.Com, where students can practice and develop their typing skills at their own pace, seamlessly integrating touch typing into their digital skill set.

Acknowledging the benefits of home practice, parents are also invited to engage in touch typing classes, creating a collaborative environment that enhances the learning experience. With this in mind, I encourage parents to get involved. Practicing at home can greatly benefit students in school. If a parent wishes to join the class, please email me directly, and I will create an account for you.

Atif Hussain

Director of IT