Beyond the Book: Why Typing is a Core Part of Modern Literacy
Published on: September 8, 2025
Today is International Literacy Day, a time to celebrate the power of reading and writing. But in our digital age, the definition of literacy is expanding. It now includes **digital literacy**, and at the heart of that is a skill we often take for granted: typing.
Typing as the New Handwriting
For centuries, handwriting was the primary way to record thoughts, write stories, and complete assignments. Today, that role is increasingly filled by the keyboard. From school essays to work emails and social media, our primary mode of written communication is now digital.
Just as fluent handwriting allows ideas to flow onto a page, fluent touch typing allows thoughts to flow onto a screen. Without it, the keyboard becomes a barrier, slowing down communication and hindering creativity.
Why is This Important for Students?
- It Builds Confidence: Students who are confident typists are more likely to engage with digital learning tools and participate in online discussions.
- It Unlocks Potential: When typing is automatic, students can focus on the *quality* of their work—their arguments, their research, and their creativity—instead of the mechanics of typing.
- It's a Foundational Skill: Strong keyboard skills are the foundation upon which other digital skills are built. It's the first step towards becoming a truly literate citizen in the 21st century.
This International Literacy Day, let's recognise that teaching our children to type is just as important as teaching them to read and write. A fun typing game is one of the best ways to build this modern form of literacy.