UltraKey takes a straightforward approach, beginning with the basics. The main screen offers sections on posture and finger position, as well as lessons and tests. Unlike some of the other programs we've reviewed, there are no games in UltraKey. About the closest the progam comes to humor, is in the funky sound the keys make when touched, simulating the sound of a 1970's era IBM Selectric.
One interesting feature in UltraKey is its use of text-to-speech synthesis. At any point, the user can click on a speaker icon, and hear the written instructions. As is true with most such synthesizers, the voice is quite mechanical sounding. Although most of our older users elected not to employ this option, it could be useful for early readers.

STEPS FROM:  

 http://www.kent.k12.wa.us/KSD/IT/TSC/ultrakey/
UltraKey has five main learning activities and an Introduction movie:
The INTRODUCTION movie introduces the program and the concept of typing. Viewing should be a whole class activity or something you can cover separately. It's essential that kids coming into Kent part way through the year review this and the elements below.
POSTURE introduces correct body and hand position which are essential to keyboarding and teaches how to eliminate problems from incorrect posture. You may want to view this as a whole class activity. The quiz is wonderful.
FINGERS teaches the terms that are used in the lessons and the positions of each finger. This activity also introduces correct striking technique and the home row position. Again, a whole class activity?
LESSONS contains a sequence of lessons that develop your keyboarding technique. Every finger action is illustrated. Key clicks and error sounds can be used to further enhance the learning power of this activity. Students learn from watching example hands that show position and technique. The skin color of the hands can be adapted for multicultural students.
SKILL CHECK provides practice, assesses progress, and suggests ways to improve. Skill Check should be used after every one or two lessons are completed. You can create an option that requires Skill Checks after each lesson.
TYPING FORUM is a tool that provides typing tests and allows free-typing activities. You can use it to take typing tests, practice specific skills, or challenge yourself with fun exercises. Spelling words, vocabulary and other Language Arts activities used in this area. The free typing area of this section does not check for accuracy.
 

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