Blindfolded Buddy Typing

• Divide students into pairs
• Explain the roles and process:
  • Typist: Wears the blindfold or looks away from the screen
  • Coach: Reads text for the typist to type, provides guidance and feedback
• Review guidelines for constructive feedback:
  • Be specific about what you observe
  • Start with positive observations
  • Suggest one improvement at a time
  • Use encouraging language
• Distribute Buddy Feedback Forms and explain how to use them

• First student in each pair takes the typist role.
• Typists put on blindfold, uses Learning Lights Keyboard, or other method so keyboard is hidden.
• Coaches read the provided story slowly and clearly, pausing and providing feedback as needed.
• After 5 minutes, coaches record feedback on Buddy Feedback Form.
• Repeat the same process with partners in reversed roles, continuing typing in same document.

• Students remove blindfolds and compare their actual typing results with what they expected
• Quick class discussion:
  • "What was the most challenging part of typing without looking?"
  • "What strategies helped you succeed?"
  • "How did the feedback from your partner help you improve?"
• Students review Buddy Feedback and set a personal goal for improving their touch typing skills

Variations:

• Pair students strategically based on skill levels (consider mixing skill levels so stronger typists can model techniques)
• Extend this activity by repeating the Typist/Coach roles as students take turns completing a timed writing using Keyboarding software such as Typesy.com or Typing.com using Learning Lights Keyboards or blindfolds. Add speed and accuracy scores to your Buddy Feedback Forms

Time & Materials:

• Computers/keyboards with Google Docs or Microsoft Word (one per pair of students)
• Blindfolds or bandanas (one per pair)
• Buddy Feedback Forms (one per student)
• Timer/stopwatch
• “The Day my Hamster Joined a Zoom Call” or other short story

Duration: 40 minutes