How does touch typing improve language skills?
Research into language development
Educational researchers at Radboud University studied the effect of typing courses on the language skills of primary school pupils. The research showed that children who learn to touch type:
- Make fewer spelling and grammar mistakes.
- Write longer essays with better content.
The results of the research
The study was carried out among 234 pupils in Dutch school years 6, 7 and 8 (the equivalent of years 4, 5 and 6 in the Belgian school system). The children took a dictation test and wrote an essay both before and after the typing course. After the course the results were significantly better, with a clear improvement in language and writing skills.
Why touch typing works
There are two main reasons why touch typing improves language skills:
- More attention for content: because children no longer have to think about finding the right keys, they can focus entirely on what they are writing.
- Learning through play: typing words and sentences over and over during the course strengthens spelling, grammar and sentence structure.
Why touch typing belongs at school
The researchers at Radboud University argue for more attention to touch typing in schools. Children who master this skill have a head start not only in language, but in their school results as well. That makes learning to touch type a valuable investment in a child's future.
Unfortunately, touch typing is still rarely part of the school curriculum, so parents have to find a suitable typing course for their child themselves. A comparison website such as typecursusvergelijker.nl can help in that search.
The role of guidance
The research also shows that guidance plays a crucial role in learning to type, especially for young children. That is why, if you choose an online typing course, free typing software is not recommended. That software offers no guidance and leaves children to fend for themselves.
At TypeMission our pupils are guided by an online typing teacher, and we use plenty of motivating elements such as games, missions and a spy story, so your child learns to touch type in an enjoyable way.
Extra benefits of typing courses
Besides better language skills, typing courses offer other benefits too. We have written about this before. Read our blog about the 10 benefits of an (online) typing course here.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about touch typing and language development
How does touch typing help with language development?
Touch typing strengthens language skills such as spelling and sentence structure because children work with language over and over while practising. That helps them write faster and without mistakes.
At what age can my child start touch typing?
On average our pupils are between 8 and 13 years old. When your child is ready to start a typing course depends on several factors. We explain this in detail in our blog “When is my child ready for a typing course?”.
Which typing course is best for my child?
That depends on your child's learning style. Courses such as TypeMission offer a playful approach with gamification, while other courses can be more traditional.
Are there free alternatives to paid typing courses?
Yes, there are free alternatives, but they only work if your child is highly motivated to learn to touch type on their own.
Does touch typing have benefits beyond language development?
Yes. Touch typing also improves school results, saves time on assignments and prevents physical complaints thanks to a better ergonomic posture. Read our blog on the 10 benefits of touch typing.