Shorthand tutorials and speed exercises could be available online in the future.

This was just one of the ideas put forward at the National Council for the Training of Journalists' annual shorthand seminar, in London.

Delegates believed that 24-hour access to such resources would maximise students' practice time.

The yearly meetings are held so the NCTJ's shorthand board can meet tutors and members and give tutors the chance to network and pick up Teeline teaching tips.

Marie Cartwright, chief examiner and chair of the shorthand board, said: "This year's programme focussed largely on listening to what the delegates had to say and they held nothing back.

"We listened and will be discussing their comments and suggestions further at our next shorthand board meeting.

"We want to encourage openness, sharing of experience and good practice, and the shorthand seminar provides an ideal opportunity for this to happen."

NCTJ chair Kim Fletcher added: "Shorthand is a basic tool. Employers value it highly – not only as an important skill, but also as a demonstration of the effort students put in to journalism."

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