Openness: A Formula for Communication

Projected employment reports indicate that most new jobs will involve occupations in which computer skills are essential, but surveys reveal that many people with a disability currently lack these computer skills. One way to address the gap is to prepare students while they are attending primary and secondary school. The National Business Education Association developed technology standards for all students in grades K–12 and recommend that keyboarding instruction begin in third or fourth grade. However, research studies indicate that general education teachers, special educators, and business education teachers do not feel prepared to teach keyboarding to students with a disability. This article reviews current practices in keyboarding instruction and provides suggestions for adaptations for students with disabilities.