Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
Is keyboarding a required course?
Keyboarding is highly recommended, but not a required course for graduation.Back to Top
Why is it recommended that Advanced English I students enroll in Keyboarding?
Students in Advanced English I should be enrolled in Keyboarding simultaneously since several units overlap. Mr. Knox, the Advanced English I teacher, and Mrs. Cross work together to present units on proper formatting for reports, outlines, title pages and reports utilizing the MLA format. Students also learn proper design for Powerpoint presentations that are used in English as well as World Geography.Back to Top
What type of equipment is in the computer lab?
The computer lab has 25 Dell workstations running Windows XP Professional. Students become familiar with the Office 2003 suite of programs including Word, Powerpoint, and Excel. Students have access to two laser printers (black/white and color) and two scanners.Back to Top
In learning to keyboard, which is more important: speed or accuracy?
Although everyone would like to be able to type fast, accuracy is more important. If you can't read what you are typing, it doesn't matter how fast you are!Back to Top
What keyboarding software is used at CHS?
A software program called MicroType Pro is used in Keyboarding and Desktop Publishing courses. This program allows students to progress at their own pace. The program is published by Thomson Learning.Back to Top
Should I practice keyboarding at home?
Yes--provided you are using the proper technique, which includes NOT watching your fingers while you type! The more you practice (PROPERLY), the better you will become!Back to Top
What keyboarding software should I use?
No special software is necessary in order to practice keyboarding. Once a student has learned the proper alphabetic and numeric reaches on the keyboard, simply open a word processor (like Word or Word Pad), find a book or newspaper article and begin typing. As you type, work for accuracy and endurance over several minutes.Back to Top
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that results from improper positioning of your hands at the keyboard for an extended amount of time. It comes about from the repetitive motions of typing while not positioned properly at the keyboard. Students are instructed in the proper placement of their body while working at the computer.Back to Top
MOS stands for Microsoft Office Specialist. Industry-standard tests administered by Microsoft are available in Word, Powerpoint, Excel, Access, and Outlook. Individuals may sit for any of these exams after paying a fee of less than $100 per exam. Passing any of these exams is an indication that the individual is quite proficient in the use of that particular software program. Currently, Mrs. Cross is MOS certified in Word 2003 and Excel 2003. Students in Keyboarding and Document Creation/Desktop Publishing learn many of the skills covered on the MOS exams.Back to Top
CIW stands for Certified Internet Webmaster. The CIW certification covers several exams for individuals interested in the web page design, networking, and/or computer security career fields. This certification is through ProSoft Learning. The first exam in the CIW series is the Foundational exam. This rigorous exam covers Networking, Site Development, and Internet Fundamentals. There are currently three exams available in the Web Design track: Foundations, Site Design, and E-Commerce. Currently, Mrs. Cross has passed the Foundations and Site Design exams and is designated as a CIW Professional. Students in Web Design cover many of the Site Design concepts. Additional training is needed in order to cover the Networking and Internet Fundamental objectives.Back to Top