Abstract: An apparatus for use in teaching comprises a carrier (10,20) of information that is to form the subject-matter of a lesson; a keyboard (12) having its keys marked with symbols which include those related to the said information; a visual display unit (14) having a screen (15); a computer (13) which is programmed in relation to said information to check the accuracy of a student's transcription of at least part of the information by indicating on the screen and/or audibly, the performance of the student; the apparatus is intended for use in the largely automated teaching of typing, shorthand (Pitman, Gregg and Teeline), and also foreign languages.