ICM CBQ Award in Text Production and Word Processing

LO1 Understand the ways to input information into a computer

Input devices used to interact with a computer: (list is not exhaustive but provides some examples) keyboard, mouse, webcam, microphone, joystick, touchscreen, touchpad, scanner, game controller.

Importance of posture when using a computer

• Prevents musculoskeletal disorders
• Improves circulation
• Enhances comfort
• Reduces fatigue
• Increases focus and productivity
• Protects vision
• Support mental health

Importance of hand placement on a typical keyboard

• Reduced strain and injury
• Increased typing speed
• Improves accuracy
• Promotes good posture
• Enhances comfort
• Supports muscle memory development

Information that can be input into a computer: (list is not exhaustive but provides some examples) text, numerical data, audio, images, video, commands, sensor data, code.

Reasons it is important to take breaks from inputting information onto a computer (list is not exhaustive but provides some examples):

• Reduces eye strain
• Prevents repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
• Relives physical fatigue
• Improves focus and mental clarity
• Promotes better circulation
• Reduces stress
• Enhances mood
• Encourages healthy posture
• Increases productivity
• Increases creativity
• Minimises long−term health risks
• Enhances overall wellbeing

Computer programs which support in spelling and grammar: (list is not exhaustive but provides some examples) Microsoft Word, Grammarly, Google Docs, Hemingway Editor, ProWritingAid, LibreOffice Writer, Ginger Software, LanguageTool, AutoCrit, Wordtune.

LO2 Be able to input information into a computer

Appropriate posture when using a computer: feet flat on the floor, knees at a 90−degree angle, straight back, shoulders relaxed, elbows at a 90−degree angle, wrists neutral (wrists straight and aligned with the forearms, ideally resting lightly on the desk or wrist support to reduce the risk of wrist strain), screen at eye level, screen about an arm’s length (20−30 inches) away from the eyes, hips slightly higher than knees.

Techniques for fast accurate typing: (list is not exhaustive but provides some examples)

• Touch typing: use all fingers to type without looking at the keyboard.
• Proper posture: sit straight with both feet flat on the floor and hands at the keyboard level.
• Home row position: keep fingers on the "ASDF" and "JKL;" keys to maintain finger placement.
• Keyboard shortcuts: learn and use shortcuts for frequently repeated actions.
• Typing practice software: use programs like typingclub or keybr to practice and improve accuracy.
• Focus on accuracy first: type slower initially to reduce errors, then gradually increase speed.
• Regular breaks: take breaks to prevent fatigue and maintain typing efficiency.
• Custom keyboard layouts: use ergonomic layouts like DVORAK or COLEMAK for comfort and speed.
• Monitor progress: track typing speed and accuracy using online tests or tools.
• Consistent practice: dedicate time daily to typing practice for continuous improvement.

Touch typing:

(touch typing is used here as a suggested way to quickly input information into a computer, use alternatives where beneficial for Learners)

• Home row keys
  
  • Left−hand fingers on A, S, D, F
  • Right−hand fingers on J, K, L, ;.
  • Keep thumbs on the space bar
• Finger assignments
  
  • Each finger is responsible for specific keys.
  • Left hand:
    
    • Little finger: A, Q, Z
    • Ring finger: S, W, X
    • Middle finger: D, E, C
    • Index finger: F, R, T, G, V, B
  • Right hand:
    
    • Index finger: J, U, I, H, N, M
    • Middle finger: K, Y, ,
    • Ring finger: L, O, .
    • Little finger: ;, P, /
• Practice basic words
  
  • Start typing small words like "cat," "dog," or "run" using the home row and nearby keys.
• Focus on accuracy
  
  • Avoid looking at the keyboard.
  • Slow down to minimise mistakes.
• Use online typing tools
  
  • Practice with websites like typingclub, keybr, or 10fastfingers to improve speed and accuracy.
• Build muscle memory
  
  • Regular practice helps fingers automatically locate keys without visual guidance.
• Learn proper posture
  
  • Sit straight with elbows at a 90−degree angle.
  • Keep wrists raised slightly above the keyboard.
• Progress to sentences
  
  • Gradually practice full sentences to improve rhythm and speed.
• Take breaks
  
  • Avoid strain by taking breaks every 20 minutes.
• Stay consistent
  
  • Daily practice for 10−20 minutes can lead to significant improvement in a few weeks.

LO3 Understand tools and programs used to increase accessibility when imputing information into a computer

Instances a program used to support spelling and grammar cannot support the input of information into a computer: (list is not exhaustive but provides some examples) technical or industry−specific terminology, informal language, multilingual text, complex sentence structures, misspellings that are actual words, contextual errors, figures, dates, numbers, legal or sensitive documents.

Instances when it would be beneficial to dictate into a computer

(The list is not exhaustive but provides some examples)

• Increased speed when compared to typing if dictating long documents
• Reduced physical strain
• Allows for multitasking
• Useful for brainstorming
• Accessibility: for individuals with visual impairments, dyslexia, or other disabilities, dictation provides an accessible alternative to typing, helping to improve productivity and inclusivity
• Captures thoughts while moving or away from the computer
• Supporting language development and pronunciation practice
• Note−taking
• Documenting verbal communication
• Supporting those with injuries

Computer programs which can be used to translate text: (list is not exhaustive but offers some examples) Google translate, Microsoft translator, DeepL translator, Amazon translate, SDL Trados Studio.

LO4 Be able to use accessibility tools and programs when inputting information into a computer

Artificial intelligence(AI) prediction tool to support in inputting information into a computer: (list is not exhaustive but provides some examples) Typewise, Google Smart Compose, Outlook test suggestions, iPhone predictive text.