Based on a study of eight LD students learning to use word processing, the paper makes recommendations for evaluating word processing software and designing instruction that is sensitive to students' difficulties. (Author/CL)

The article describes an approach by which word processing helps to solve some of the writing problems of learning disabled students. Aspects considered include prewriting, drafting, revising, and completing the story. (CL)

The article considers the research basis for use of word processing with learning disabled fourth grade students, notes the special demands word processing makes on teachers and students in the initial learning stage, and suggests instructional approaches. (DB)

Writing strategies encourage beginning writers to collect, explore, and focus ideas. This paper presents a rationale for fusing the word processor with the writing process and offers a series of pre-writing strategies, such as brainstorming, clustering and chunk writing, to help learning-disabled writers begin writing. (Author/PB)

The article describes typical kinds of writing problems found in fourth grade learning disabled students and discusses ways in which the computer makes the child's planning and composing problems more accessible to teacher help. Similarly, pitfalls of such accessibility are also cited. (CL)

The article describes ways in which learning disabled students can use simple database management and word processing programs as active users. Involvement in these types of computer applications allows the user to be an active, creative communicator. (CL)

Computer software that promotes creative and higher level thinking skills and develops writing ability in gifted students with learning disabilities is examined. Brief descriptions and appropriate grade levels are offered for such programs as "Science Toolkit,""Advisor,""VCR Companion,""Rocky's Boots,""Hinky/Pinky,""Story Sketches,""Author!…

Since word-processing applications of microcomputers show a great deal of promise in helping learning disabled adults overcome writing problems, care should be given in selecting the software that they use. In considering what shared needs must be addressed when selecting word-processing software, it is necessary to isolate some of these needs,…

A process approach to writing instruction for students with learning disabilities is presented. The approach involves students sharing their work with each other, receiving frequent response to their writing, using word processing to support fluent text production and ease revision, conferencing with teachers to develop writing strategies, and…

This article describes the CHECK procedure for teaching students with learning disabilities skills in the actual operation of a computer spell-check. Students are urged to check the beginning sound, hunt for correct consonants, examine the vowels, make changes, and keep repeating the process. (CR)

Principles for effectively teaching writing skills to mildly handicapped and learning-disabled students are outlined, and then three varying approaches are presented: (1) Direct Reading and Writing program, integrating regular class content with writing instruction; (2) self-instructional control strategies to reduce the complexity of writing…

This paper provides an overview of the Computers and Writing Instruction Project, a field-tested curriculum for teaching writing to learning-disabled students consisting of a process approach, word processing, and strategy instruction. Its scope and sequence are described and guidelines for establishing a writer's workshop in the classroom…

Technological solutions have enabled postsecondary students with learning disabilities to compete equally with nondisabled peers in the educational environment. Such solutions have included a variety of educational software, word processing applications, and adaptive technology. Educational software has many benefits over more traditional…

This report presents first year (1984-85) findings of The Writing Project, a 2-year school-based study of the use of word processing to improve learning-disabled children's writing skills. Emphasis is on how remedial teachers can integrate computers into their writing activities in resource rooms and classrooms. Based in three Massachusetts school…

Uses a case study of a third-grade student with a severe learning disability and an attention deficit disorder to illustrate use of word prediction and speech synthesis software to help students with such tasks as communicating via dialog journals. Guidelines (such as using a relatively small word list) and evidence of the method's effectiveness…