Generation Z, known for their digital fluency, has grown up surrounded by advanced technology and screens. However, a recent report by The Wall Street Journal reveals that their proficiency in essential computer tasks, such as keyboard typing, may not match their tech-savvy reputation.
Data from the U.S. Department of Education shows a dramatic decline in formal keyboarding instruction: from 44 percent of high school graduates taking keyboarding courses in 2000 to just 2.5 percent in 2019.
While Gen Z has embraced mobile devices and on-screen keyboards, this shift has led to a neglect of physical keyboard skills, which are crucial for many professional and academic settings. Many students still watch their hands while typing, indicating a lack of confidence with keyboard use.
As standardized tests increasingly move to computer-based formats, students struggling with typing could find themselves disadvantaged, focusing more on keyboard navigation than on test content.
This growing need for typing proficiency has led to a renewed interest in formal keyboarding instruction. Tim Dikun, COO of Teaching.com, notes a surge in demand for typing curricula, especially from states like New York and Texas that have adopted computer-based exams.
In response, schools are reintroducing typing lessons into their curricula. Nonetheless, self-taught typists, who often use fewer fingers, can still achieve competitive typing speeds with consistent practice.
As Gen Z continues to adapt to new technology, mastering physical keyboards remains important for academic and professional success. By combining formal instruction with self-guided practice, students can enhance their keyboard skills and bridge the gap between mobile device usage and traditional typing proficiency.
