Updated March 23 (4 minute read)

BBC Bitesize Dance Mat Typing                           

BBC Bitesize Dance Mat Typing is a free resource and uses a similar method of teaching as several other typing software. Their teaching method includes videos, colour coded keys, games, badges, loud audio and bright moving visuals, etc.  

Image – BBC Bitesize Dance Mat Typing

Does this method really work? Is there any science or research behind it to say it does? Does it build muscle memory and automaticity and most importantly, is it truly inclusive and suitable for the whole class?

Many mainstream typing software claim to be SEN enabled but truth be told, they 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 visual disturbances. If you think about it, how can a child learn to read, spell, write or type when the letters in front of them are blurred, jumping around or moving off the page altogether, accompanied with loud audio and continual onscreen distractions?

As mentioned above, if you want to be assured of choosing the right typing software, choose one that is safe and secure for online learning, easy to use, developed through research, tried, tested, proven to work, industry recognised and one that is truly inclusive and caters for the whole class.

KAZ is an inclusive touch typing software suitable for both mainstream and pupils with special educational needs

It was scientifically developed through research by a team of experts responsible for producing 55 RSA/NVQ level computer and office skill courses

It was trialled and tested by 18,000 students per year, over 3 years, in 300 private training centres across the UK before it was released to market

It uses a proven ©Accelerated Learning teaching method, incorporating ‘brain balance’

Includes a special module for developing automaticity 

All SEN aspects were developed with advice and guidance from the Dyslexia Research Trust, including a unique preference screen which minimises visual disturbances pupils may be experiencing, before they start learning

It’s simple in presentation, easy to use and delivered in a light hearted-manner 

It’s safe and secure - KAZ are members of ICO.org.uk and ensure pupil’s data is protected. Read our privacy policy on our website

The teacher’s admin panel allows easy upload of pupil lists, spellings of the week / problematic words and the monitoring of student progress in real-time

It’s affordable - prices to suit all school budgets with fully transparent pricing

It’s available over all platforms: Download for Mac and PC, SCORM for LMS and Online (the new mode of learning, allowing practice to continue beyond the classroom). Our App can now be used on iPads - though we advise with a keyboard

The KAZ course has proven so effective that it was shortlisted as a finalist for several academic awards:

Bett Awards in 2006 and 2019

Teach Primary 2019/20 and Teach Secondary 2019/20

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 ...

Bitesize Dance Mat Typing / KAZ / Others

A Comparison

Why teach children how to touch type?

Children are like sponges, they absorb information without even realising it and it has been proven that the earlier they begin learning, the easier it is for them to master a skill.

As for neurodivergent students, touch typing offers a new medium for learning and communicating, building confidence and self-esteem. In some cases, it can be life-changing!

Helpful tips 

Once you’ve mastered the skill, touch typing is the fastest way to write. It just takes a little dedication and practice but the most important things to remember are: 

Don’t rush – work at your own pace

Follow the instructions

Always start with your fingers on the ‘home row’ and use the correct fingers

Take a break when you’re tired of concentrating or when your eyes, hands and fingers are tired 

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!

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https://kaz-type.com