Gen Z grew up around computers: They are still shockingly bad at typing

Generation Z, often lauded as digital natives, has grown up surrounded by screens and the latest technology. With their reputation for tech fluency, one would assume that Gen Z is equally adept at essential computer tasks like keyboard typing. However, a recent report from The Wall Street Journal reveals that this assumption couldn’t be further from the truth. According to data from the U.S. Department of Education, in 2000, nearly 44 percent of high school graduates had taken a formal keyboarding course. By 2019, that number had drastically declined to just 2.5 percent. While it might seem that Gen Z no longer needs formal instruction due to their tech-savvy nature, the reality is that many need help with basic keyboard skills.  Instead of mastering typing, Gen Z has embraced mobile devices, preferring on-screen keyboards over physical ones. Many Gen Z students have traded physical keyboards for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, which require a different level of typing precision. Yet this shift in device preference comes with a trade-off. Physical keyboard use – an essential skill in many professional and academic settings – has been neglected. Some students still watch their hands as they type to ensure accuracy, a clear sign of a lack of keyboard confidence. As more standardized tests move to computer-based formats, students who struggle with typing may lose valuable time focusing on the keyboard rather than the exam content. This deficiency in typing skills is spurring a renewed interest in formal keyboarding instruction. Tim Dikun, COO of Teaching.com, the company behind Typing.com, notes a rise in demand for typing curricula, particularly from states like New York and Texas that have moved to computer-based exams. As schools recognize the importance of keyboard proficiency for student success, more efforts are being made to reintroduce typing lessons into the curriculum. However, formal training isn’t always necessary. Research has shown that self-taught typists often use fewer fingers (an average of six) and can type as quickly as professionals who use all ten fingers. With consistent practice, many students can improve their skills independently, bridging the gap between mobile device usage and keyboard proficiency. While Gen Z may be more adept at swiping and tapping than traditional keyboard typing, the need for mastering physical keyboards remains relevant, especially in academic and professional environments. As schools and states shift toward computer-based assessments and tasks, typing skills could significantly affect student performance. With a combination of renewed formal instruction and self-guided practice, Gen Z can close the gap and enhance their overall tech capabilities – from screens to keyboards.

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