Suggests that good software: constitutes a coherent text within a consistent theoretical framework; encourages users to take action; makes sense of complexity of information; has a consistent interface; allows connection to other programs; lets the user know what is going on; and is flexible from the teacher's and the student's points of view. (RS)

Offers criteria for selecting software for a computer-equipped classroom/writing lab: identifying uses, versatility, and ease of use. Concludes with advice for teachers to write their own applications programs. (RS)

Discusses the ideological dimensions of writing instruction software. Discusses errors and assumptions of choosing software for writing instruction. Suggests that all software decisions must be tested against the instructor's own self-conscious and informed understanding of the goals of writing instruction. (RS)

Illustrates the ideological foundations of computer-assisted composition (CAC) software by comparing two computer-writing aids: "Grammatik II" and "Interchange." Notes that many of the best CAC programs have come out of the composition classroom. Argues that English departments must support and reward those who work in CAC design. (RS)

Notes that educational software for the language arts should serve as a conduit to foster language development and should be evaluated as such for its instructional claims. Offers guidelines from a language learning perspective as a first cut in the evaluation process. (RS)

Offers the following advice for teachers looking to integrate computers into their curricula: look around, software before hardware, and plan for continuing support and training. (RS)

Presents an edited transcript of a discussion among experts on academic software in which they discuss software development in composition studies. (RS)