"Cognoter(tm)" and "CB" software, two new computer-based writing tools that rely on shared texts and real-time communication among participants and support collaborative invention, have implications for invention pedagogy and research. Cognoter improves on current invention aids by combining a brainstorming tool, a graphical…

Reviews the major types of computer aids to invention to reveal the paper-based design paradigm that characterizes them. Discusses implications of this "old paradigm" and suggests directions for developing new, uniquely electronic paradigms for future aids. (AEW)