Updated April 10th (4 minute read) As schools increasingly recognise the importance of touch typing for academic success, exam readiness, and career preparation, choosing the right touch typing software is essential. However, here lies the problem, as there are so many to choose from. At the end of the day, they should all do the same thing: teach learners to touch type. So, what should you look for when choosing typing software? Good typing software should be inclusive, safe and secure, record progress and have an effective and proven teaching method that develops muscle memory and automaticity and teaches the skill quickly and easily.   BBC Bitesize Dance Mat Typing                            BBC Bitesize Dance Mat Typing is a free resource that uses an entertainment-based approach similar to that of several other typing software. Their teaching method includes videos, colour-coded keys, games, badges, loud audio and bright moving visuals.  Does this approach really work? Does it cater for all age groups and accommodate all abilities?  How does it compare to a paid-for typing software like KAZ Type?     Image – BBC Bitesize Dance Mat Typing Audience: Dance Mat caters to younger learners. KAZ caters to all age groups in academic settings. It is inclusive and was specifically developed to accommodate the whole class - mainstream, the hearing and visually impaired and neurodivergent learners, with challenges such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, ADHD and ASD, amongst others – making it one of the few typing software designed for diverse learning needs. Teaching Method: Dance Mat uses a cartoon-style game-based approach. KAZ uses a light-hearted, scientifically structured, step-by-step progression approach, ensuring consistent learning, unlike free tools that lack structured progression. It uses a unique and proven ©Accelerated Learning teaching method, incorporating ‘brain balance’, teaching the fingers of both hands to work symmetrically and simultaneously. It was scientifically developed through research by a team of experts responsible for producing 55 RSA/NVQ level computer and office skill courses and was trialled and tested by 18,000 students per year, over three years in 300 private training centres across the UK before it was released to market.       Inclusive – Supporting Mainstream & Learners with Special Educational Needs  Many mainstream typing software claim to be SEN enabled but are not. Children get diagnosed with differences such as dyslexia at different stages of their school life. Until they are, they struggle to learn due to various challenges such as processing and visual disturbances. If you think about it, how can a child learn to read, spell, write or type while experiencing visual disturbances and/or processing issues, accompanied with loud audio and continual onscreen distractions? BBC Dance Mat lacks the features tailored to learners with SEN and the research-backed design that supports neurodivergent learners. KAZ’s accessible software caters for the whole class, mainstream, the hearing and visually impaired and neurodivergent learners, with challenges such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, ADHD and ASD, amongst others – making it one of the few typing programs designed for diverse learning needs.   Specialised features Include:   Unique Preference Screen - developed with advice and guidance from the Dyslexia Research Trust. The specialised screen minimises visual disturbances before pupils start learning, tailoring the course for maximum visibility and comfort. Preferences includes, specialised filter colours to help minimise blurring, letter movement and glare, font sizes and colours and dyslexia-friendly typefaces.    The VI option was developed with advice and guidance from the Thomas Pocklington Trust (charity for the visually impaired). It is compatible with JAWS, and most other screen readers, magnification software and hardware, and captioning software.   .           The Challenge Modules were designed for learners with short memory and to help build muscle memory and automaticity. Learners see the word, hear the word, and then hear it spelled before typing it three times. Teachers have the ability to add curriculum year-based vocabulary from KAZ’s vocabulary bank and/or problematic words, allowing pupils to learn typing and spelling simultaneously.     Full Monitoring, Tracking & Reporting for Teachers BBC Dance Mat does not offer tracking or reporting features for monitoring learner performance, making it difficult for teachers to assess learner progress.  KAZ’s comprehensive and user-friendly admin panel provides detailed reporting for teachers and IT coordinators. It allows teachers to upload single or multiple learners into groups in minutes, track learner progress in real time and view bookmarks and results (typing speed, accuracy and error keys). This allows them to adapt lessons based on performance, ensuring measurable outcomes.                                                    GDPR & Online Safety Compliant -Secure & Safe for Schools Free programs like BBC Dance Mat and other free programs often come with distractions, and some free platforms may contain ads or external links that disrupt learning. KAZ is a safe and secure platform with no ads, distractions, pop-ups, or third-party tracking, ensuring a safe and 100% focussed learning environment for learners. We are members of ICO.org.uk and ensure learner data is protected. Please read our privacy policy on our website.                                                                      Cloud-Based & Multi-Device Accessibility Many free programs, including BBC Dance Mat, have limited device compatibility.   KAZ is fully accessible across all devices: Download for Mac and PC, SCORM for use within LMS and Online (allowing learning to continue beyond the classroom). Our App can now be used on iPads - though we  always advise the use of a keyboard.     Affordable BBC Dance Mat typing is free but does it encompass everything a good typing software should? Is it inclusive, safe and secure, record progress, work across all platforms, and have an effective and proven teaching method that teaches the skill quickly and easily. KAZ is a paid for software but it’s affordable and transparent, offering prices to suit all school budgets. Licensing options cover classroom, multi-school, and district-wide implementation.   Lastly… The KAZ course has proven so effective that it was shortlisted as a finalist for several academic awards and more recently the WINNER for: Teach Secondary 2023 SEND as well as being nominated for the School & Supplier awards 2023 - Education Today   There are not many typing tutors which have been tried, tested, proven and used by the Open University   Listen to what the Sensible Senco has to say about KAZ ... <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s3ahMqklAMI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> Bitesize Dance Mat Typing / KAZ / Others A Comparison                       Safety at the computer Take care of yourself and prevent Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). Sit with correct posture and follow the guidance below.    Adult & Junior KAZ Bird – Posture Image ©kaz-type.com Happy typing! If this article was helpful, please share it.     https://kaz-type.com                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

When at university, student A’s most significant challenges were her anxiety and managing her brain fog. She often struggled to focus on tasks for extended periods and keep up with lectures. Her anxiety prevented her from using speech-to-text software effectively, even in the privacy of her own space.   Not thinking that touch typing could be her saving grace, she decided to learn the skill simply to improve her productivity. However, on learning the skill, she noticed a significant improvement in both her academic performance and overall well-being.   Before learning to touch type, she spent a lot of time focusing on where her fingers were on the keyboard. The constant back-and-forth between looking at the screen and her hands made it incredibly difficult to keep track of the subject matter and what she was thinking. Added to this, her brain fog would make it all the harder to process the information. She often found herself losing focus quickly, which only added to her anxiety and frustration.   However, once she started learning to touch type, everything changed. At first, it felt awkward, as her brain was used to associating typing with looking at her hands, and breaking the habit took time. But with practise, she began to rely more on muscle memory than thinking about where her fingers were. This freed up mental space that she used to dedicate to focusing on her typing, enabling her to keep up with assignments without feeling as overwhelmed.   However, the real difference was how it reduced her brain fog. With touch typing, her thoughts flowed more naturally onto the screen because she was no longer distracted by the physical act of typing. This meant she could write faster and more efficiently, which helped her keep track of ideas as they came. It also improved her concentration. She noticed she could stay focused on tasks longer without feeling mentally exhausted or scattered. The typing process had become automatic, allowing her mind to be more present and engaged with the material.   Moreover, the improvement in her typing speed helped her considerably during exams and when submitting essays. She no longer wasted time fumbling for keys or struggling to keep up with her thoughts. She felt she could express herself more clearly and at a quicker pace.   In summary, learning to touch type has been a game-changer for student A. It has not only helped her manage her brain fog but has also given her the freedom to focus more on content. She feels more confident in her academic abilities and recommends learning to touch type to other students with similar challenges.   Our inclusive touch typing software, designed with accessibility at its core, offers an effective and engaging solution. Its specialised features make learning this subconscious skill simple and enjoyable. Once mastered, touch typing increases productivity and efficiency, reduces cognitive load, and, in turn, aids brain fog. It fosters confidence and self-belief, empowering students. KAZ – Accessible Touch Typing Software  

In today’s fast-paced digital world, typing is no longer a mere convenience—it’s an essential life skill. Whether you’re a student submitting assignments, a professional juggling deadlines, or an entrepreneur scaling your business, the ability to type efficiently can significantly enhance productivity, reduce stress, and open doors to countless opportunities. Yet, many learners struggle with outdated typing habits, frustration, or even physical discomfort, all of which can hinder their progress in both education and career. Enter KAZ Type, the innovative touch typing software designed to address these pain points and provide a solution that is not only practical but transformative. Let’s delve into why learning to type with KAZ is a game-changer and how it can empower you to thrive in our increasingly digital world. Why Typing Skills Matter More Than Ever The digital landscape is evolving rapidly, and with it, the demand for proficient typing skills has surged. Consider this: Academic Success: Students are now required to type essays, complete online tests, and navigate digital learning platforms. Without strong typing skills, tasks take longer, and frustration can mount. Workplace Efficiency: From sending emails to creating reports, typing is a core part of most jobs. Employees who type quickly and accurately are often more productive and better equipped to meet deadlines. Career Opportunities: Proficient typists stand out in the job market. Whether you’re entering data, coding, or communicating, typing mastery can set you apart from the competition. Personal Benefits: Typing effectively saves time, reduces repetitive strain injuries, and boosts confidence when engaging with technology.   Despite these clear advantages, many individuals find themselves stuck with the "hunt-and-peck" method or struggling to improve their speed and accuracy. This is where KAZ Type comes in.   Addressing Learner Pain Points One of the biggest barriers to mastering typing is the lack of accessible, engaging, and inclusive learning tools. Learners often cite the following challenges: Time Constraints: Busy schedules make it hard to commit to lengthy courses. Frustration with Progress: Traditional methods can feel slow and unmotivating. Lack of Accessibility: Many typing programs fail to cater to individuals with learning differences or disabilities. Overwhelming Complexity: Complicated interfaces and rigid lessons can discourage learners.   KAZ Type has been meticulously designed to overcome these hurdles, making it an indispensable tool for anyone looking to improve their typing skills. The KAZ Advantage: All-in-One Typing Software KAZ Type isn’t just another typing program—it’s an all-encompassing solution tailored to diverse needs. Here’s what sets it apart: 1. Innovative Teaching Methodology KAZ’s scientifically developed Accelerated Learning teaching method allows users to learn the A-to-Z keys in just 90 minutes. By engaging both sides of the brain, the software ensures faster learning and better retention. 2. Flexible and Time-Efficient With short, focused modules, KAZ Type fits seamlessly into any schedule. Whether you have 10 minutes or an hour, you can progress at your own pace. 3. Accessibility and Inclusivity KAZ is a pioneer in creating software that caters to individuals with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, and visual impairments. The program offers specialized features like audio instructions, customizable fonts, and background colors to ensure every learner feels supported. 4. Tailored for All Ages Whether you’re teaching children the foundational skill of typing or helping adults refine their abilities, KAZ is suitable for learners of all ages. 5. Engaging and User-Friendly Gone are the days of tedious typing drills. KAZ combines simplicity with interactivity to keep learners motivated and focused. 6. Real-World Applications By mastering touch typing with KAZ, users not only gain speed and accuracy but also develop the confidence to tackle real-world tasks—from composing emails to navigating online platforms effortlessly. 7. Recognized Qualifications and Partnerships KAZ Type is not only effective but also officially recognized. The program offers an Ofqual-regulated qualification, providing learners with a credible certification that validates their skills. Additionally, KAZ has partnered with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), making it an ideal choice for young learners participating in this prestigious program. These collaborations underscore KAZ’s commitment to delivering quality and credibility to its users.   Transform Your Life with KAZ Learning to type isn’t just about increasing words per minute—it’s about unlocking your potential. With KAZ Type, you’ll experience: Reduced Stress: Typing fluently allows you to focus on ideas rather than the mechanics of writing. Enhanced Productivity: Complete tasks faster and free up time for what matters most. Improved Digital Confidence: Navigate technology with ease, whether for work, study, or personal growth. In a world where time and efficiency are paramount, typing is the foundation for success. KAZ Type is more than a software—it’s a gateway to a brighter, more productive future. Take the First Step Today Why wait to unlock your potential? Whether you’re looking to boost your career prospects, support your child’s education, or simply make everyday tasks easier, KAZ Type is here to guide you every step of the way. Discover the transformative power of touch typing and embrace a skill that will serve you for a lifetime. Visit KAZ Type today and start your journey towards typing mastery. The keyboard is your tool—let KAZ help you wield it with confidence and precision.  

In a digital world where speed and accuracy matter, touch typing is a critical skill. At KAZ Type, we provide an inclusive touch typing software that’s fast, effective, and Ofqual-certified — helping learners of all ages and abilities succeed. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply looking to improve your typing efficiency, KAZ Typing is the perfect solution.   What Makes KAZ Typing Stand Out? 1. Revolutionary Learning Method KAZ uses its unique Five Phrase Method — a scientifically proven technique designed to help you learn touch typing in just 90 minutes. By engaging visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic senses, KAZ caters to every learning style, ensuring faster and more effective results. 2. Accessibility for All Learners We believe that everyone deserves access to typing skills. That’s why KAZ Typing offers: A Dyslexia-Friendly Version: Features include customisable background colours, font styles, and OpenDyslexic font to support learners with dyslexia. Support for Special Educational Needs (SEN): Designed to accommodate diverse learning requirements, empowering everyone to succeed in education and work. 3. Ofqual Certification KAZ Typing isn’t just about mastering a skill — it’s about gaining recognition. Learners can earn an Ofqual-regulated typing qualification, which adds a valuable credential to CVs and portfolios. This certification demonstrates proficiency in touch typing, a skill in high demand across industries. 4. Versatility for All Ages From school students to professionals and senior learners, KAZ is a typing tutor that adapts to your needs. Its intuitive interface and self-paced approach make it easy for anyone to learn and excel.   The Benefits of Learning Touch Typing with KAZ   1. Improve Productivity and Speed Typing faster and more accurately saves time and reduces frustration, making KAZ an essential tool for students, employees, and professionals alike. 2. Enhance Career Prospects With an Ofqual-recognised typing qualification, you can stand out to potential employers by showcasing your dedication to skill development. 3. Reduce Physical Strain and Stress Touch typing minimises repetitive strain and typing errors, making your work more efficient and less taxing on your hands and mind. 4. Boost Confidence in the Digital Age Knowing how to type fluently opens doors in education, careers, and personal growth. KAZ equips learners with a skill that instills confidence for life.   Why KAZ Typing Is Perfect for Schools, Organisations, and Charity Support   KAZ isn’t just a tool for individuals — it’s a game-changer for institutions and organisations: Schools: Equip students with typing skills to enhance academic performance. Businesses: Upskill employees to boost workplace productivity. Charities and Social Impact Projects: KAZ partners with initiatives to empower all individuals by teaching typing skills, aiding integration and career prospects.   Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)   1. What is KAZ Typing Software? KAZ Typing is an award-winning touch typing software designed to teach typing efficiently. It offers a dyslexia-friendly version and an Ofqual-regulated qualification upon completion. 2. Who Can Use KAZ Typing? Anyone! From young learners to professionals and seniors, KAZ is designed for all ages and abilities. 3. How Long Does It Take to Learn? With the Five Phrase Method, you can learn the basics of touch typing in just 90 minutes. 4. What Are the Benefits of an Ofqual Qualification? An Ofqual qualification is an officially recognised certification that boosts employability by showcasing verified typing skills.   Start Typing Smarter Today   With KAZ Typing, you can transform your typing skills quickly and gain a recognised qualification to elevate your career. Our software is accessible, inclusive, and perfect for anyone looking to improve productivity, reduce stress, and boost confidence in the digital age. Ready to get started? Visit KAZ Type and start your typing journey today!   Call to Action   Don’t wait to unlock your potential — try KAZ Typing now and earn your Ofqual typing qualification. Please share this with friends or colleagues who want to master touch typing too!  

  Accuracy over Speed   The phrase 'slow and steady' refers to the idea that consistent, gradual progress is often more effective and successful than rushing or trying to accomplish something too quickly. It promotes a methodical approach, suggesting that taking one's time leads to more sustainable outcomes. This saying is rooted in the moral of Aesop's fable, 'The Tortoise and the Hare,' where a slow but consistent tortoise ultimately wins a race against a faster, impulsive hare. When learning to touch type, it is best to follow the same thinking, because slowing down and taking a step back is crucial for building a solid foundation, correct technique and preventing bad habits. Here's why: Accuracy Over Speed: Touch typing requires a balance between accuracy and speed. If learners focus solely on typing fast, they tend to make more mistakes, which can be hard to unlearn. Taking a step back to focus on accuracy helps ensure each finger reaches the correct keys consistently, allowing for gradual speed increases later without sacrificing correctness.   Muscle Memory Development: Touch typing relies heavily on muscle memory, which takes time to develop. Moving too quickly often leads to reliance on looking at the keyboard, hindering true muscle memory formation. Slowing down allows focused repetition, strengthening the brain's connection with finger placement and minimising errors.   Reduces Cognitive Overload: Learning to touch type involves memorising finger placements and staying focused on the screen instead of the keyboard. By slowing down, learners avoid overwhelming themselves, allowing the brain to process new information more effectively. This also aids in building confidence and making typing feel more natural over time.   Avoiding Physical Strain: Typing too quickly while learning can lead to stress on the hands and fingers. Slower practise sessions gradually help develop the necessary finger strength and dexterity, reducing the risk of strain or injury.   Research findings suggest that starting slowly creates a solid typing technique that leads to better long-term outcomes, as learners gain the ability to type quickly without looking at the keyboard and with fewer mistakes.          

  The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) is a youth awards program founded in the United Kingdom in 1956 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. It aims to empower young people aged 14 to 24 to develop essential life skills, increase physical fitness, cultivate a sense of adventure, and contribute to their communities. The program is designed to be challenging but achievable. It encourages personal development and self-discovery and helps young people grow as individuals while preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.     Key Components of the DofE Award The DofE Award consists of four main sections, with an additional section at the Gold level: Volunteering Objective: To develop a sense of community and social responsibility by engaging and volunteering for a cause or organization.  Physical Objective: To improve physical fitness and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle through participation in physical activities.  Skills Objective: To develop practical and social skills and personal interests that will benefit participants in everyday life and in their future careers. Expedition Objective: To foster a spirit of adventure, discovery and a connection with the outdoors by planning and undertaking an expedition or exploration.  Residential (Gold Level Only) Objective: To engage in a shared activity or specific course away from home with people who are not known to the participant. Award Levels The DofE Award is available at three levels: Bronze - Silver - Gold    KAZ – Approved Activity Provided (Skills Section) KAZ is an Approved Activity Provider (AAP). We offer candidates the opportunity to learn the skill of touch typing and gain an optional National Ofqual-regulated qualification, which adds to their education record.   Our accessible course is suitable for both mainstream participants and those with special educational needs. Benefits of Learning to touch type with KAZ 1. Structured Learning Path Comprehensive Curriculum: We offer a structured course covering all aspects of touch typing, ensuring learners develop a strong foundation and progress systematically using a step-by-step lesson plan. Progress Tracking: The course allows learners to track their progress and provides a clear indication of improvement and areas that need more practise.   2. Flexibility and Convenience Online Access: Being online, the course offers the flexibility to learn from anywhere and at any time, fitting in and around busy schedules. Self-Paced Learning: The course allows participants to learn at their own pace and at a time that suits them best, from home, school, college or university. It is ideal for balancing school work and other DofE activities and commitments. 3. Engaging and Interactive Content Interactive Lessons: We use engaging and interactive lessons that make learning to touch type more enjoyable and effective. Variety of Exercises: The course includes a variety of exercises and tests that cater to different learning styles and keep the learning process dynamic.   4. User-Friendly Interface Easy to Use: The platform is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for learners to navigate and use effectively.   Accessible Design: The course includes several specialised features, making it accessible to individuals with various needs, including those with dyslexia or other learning differences.   5. Support and Resources Customer Support: Our assessors and support team are always happy to help with any technical issues or questions about the course. Additional Resources: The course includes additional resources, such as lesson plans, guides and overviews to enhance the learning experience.   6. Relevance to DofE Skills Section Meets Criteria: The KAZ course meets the criteria for the Skills section of the DofE Awards, helping participants develop a useful and practical skill that is recognized by the program. Demonstrates Commitment: Completing an accredited touch-typing course shows dedication and commitment to self-improvement, which aligns with the values of the DofE Awards.   7. Practical Benefits Improved Efficiency: Touch typing enhances efficiency and productivity in academic and professional tasks.   Long-Term Advantage: The modern-day ‘life skill’ is valuable in the long term, providing an advantage in various aspects of life, including further education and career opportunities.   8. Accreditation and Certification Accredited Course: Sitting the optional national Ofqual regulated assessment adds credibility and recognition to participants’ skill development. Certification: Upon completion, all participants receive a certificate that can be a valuable addition to their DofE portfolio and social media profiles and an asset for their UCAS application form and future CV, as the award is recognized by employers and educational institutions, demonstrating commitment and achievement.   Conclusion:   Choosing KAZ’s online touch-typing course for the DofE Skills Award can provide a well-rounded, flexible, and effective learning experience that fulfils the award requirements. It equips participants with a practical, lifelong skill that has wide-ranging benefits for their future in both their personal and professional lives.  

  In an era where digitalisation is reshaping the landscape of education, proficiency in touch typing has emerged as a crucial skill for students, particularly when facing digital exams. Touch typing, the ability to type without looking at the keyboard, coupled with the utilisation of specialised software like KAZ, offers students a myriad of advantages that enhance their performance and experience during digital assessments. Firstly, the speed and accuracy gained through touch typing with can significantly impact a student's efficiency in completing exam tasks. Digital exams often have time constraints, and every keystroke counts towards completing the assessment within the allocated timeframe. With traditional hunt-and-peck typing methods, students may struggle to keep up with the pace of the exam, leading to incomplete responses or errors. However, mastering touch typing allows students to type swiftly and accurately, maximising their productivity and enabling them to fully demonstrate their knowledge within the given time. Moreover, touch typing proficiency fosters a smoother exam experience by reducing cognitive load. When students are proficient in touch typing, they no longer need to divert their attention to locate keys on the keyboard, enabling them to focus entirely on comprehending and answering exam questions. This streamlined cognitive process enhances concentration and reduces the likelihood of mental fatigue, ensuring that students can maintain optimal performance throughout the exam duration. Additionally, touch typing with KAZ promotes accessibility and inclusivity in digital exams. For students with physical disabilities or limitations, traditional typing methods may pose significant challenges and hinder their ability to express themselves effectively. However, learning to type, particularly with adaptive software like KAZ, which accommodates diverse needs, ensures that all students can participate in digital assessments on an equal footing. Did you know that KAZ were selected by OpenAwards to produce the only touch typing qualifications available in the UK in Level 1 and level 2?     It's important to note that the proficiency gained through touch typing extends beyond the realm of digital exams and into various facets of academic and professional life. In an increasingly digital-centric society, effective communication and information processing skills are indispensable for success. By mastering touch typing, students develop a fundamental competency that enhances their productivity, communication, and digital literacy skills, empowering them to excel not only in exams but also in future academic pursuits and careers. In conclusion, touch typing holds immense importance for students preparing to undertake digital exams. By cultivating speed, accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility, touch typing equips students with the essential tools needed to navigate the challenges of digital assessments effectively. Moreover, the proficiency gained through touch typing extends far beyond exam settings, providing students with a valuable skill set that enhances their academic and professional capabilities in an increasingly digitalised world. As such, integrating the KAZ touch typing course into educational curricula is not merely an option but a necessity in preparing students for the demands of the digital age.            

    Sensible Senco discusses KAZ:     <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s3ahMqklAMI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>       Paloma Forde:   https://kaz-type.com/blog/guest-blog-the-vital-connection-between-touch-typing-and-dyslexic-learners-by-paloma-forde-the-invisible-gift     DSA and Access to Workplace Specialists:   https://kaz-type.com/newfolder/Ebook-Experts-Review-B.pdf     Teach Secondary winner:   Best software SEND