New Jersey Assembly Bill A4924

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/21/24
• Refer: 10/21/24

Caption

Requires school districts to provide instruction on keyboarding.

Impact

The implementation of A4924 is expected to enhance the skillset of students by requiring them to complete keyboarding activities designed to have them typing a minimum of one page in a single sitting by the end of sixth grade. This requirement aligns with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards regarding Career Readiness and Life Literacies, underscoring the state's commitment to improving digital skill competency among young learners. As technology increasingly dominates both academic assessments and workplace settings, enhancing keyboarding skills can potentially impact students' overall performance and educational outcomes.

Summary

Bill A4924 proposes to reinstate keyboarding instruction in the curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through six across all school districts in New Jersey. The primary goal of this legislation is to ensure that elementary students develop essential typing skills that have become increasingly necessary in modern educational and work environments. With the decline of keyboarding courses over the years, this bill seeks to address the gap in digital literacy education and equip students with abilities that enable them to navigate today's technology-driven society effectively.

Contention

There may be concerns or debates surrounding the effectiveness and necessity of reintegrating keyboarding into the curriculum. Some legislators and educators may argue about the relevance of teaching keyboarding in an era dominated by touchscreen devices, suggesting that students may not benefit significantly from traditional typing skills when alternative technologies are prevalent. However, proponents of the bill argue that foundational skills in keyboarding will better prepare students for standardized tests and equip them with vital competencies needed in higher education and future careers, emphasizing the importance of digital equity and access to learning opportunities.