A distinction must be made between "computer-generated scoring" and "computer-generated feedback". Computer-generated scoring refers to the provision of automated scores derived from mathematical models built on organizational, syntactic, and mechanical aspects of writing. In contrast, computer-generated feedback, the focus of this article, refers…

The development of both the materials for an intermediate-level hybrid German writing course and the software in a virtual learning environment for the course may be viewed as activity systems. Viewing the individual components of each system as interrelated enables us to conceptualize the complexities of the development process, which goes well…

In a project-based approach to teaching a foreign language at the university level, students are often required to participate in several task-based writing activities. In doing so, language learners not only write incorrect forms, but also correct forms of the same structures, both of which provide useful information on their strengths and…

Identifies strengths and weaknesses of a computer software package called Rightwriter and concludes that it is easier to learn and costs less than its competitors. (DF)

Introduces the idea of a smart documentation system (SDS). Argues that an SDS will be more useful for providing interface that allows the user to describe problems using natural language. Describes a computational linguistic system that could provide the basis for such an interface, and the basic design of an SDS that would incorporate such an…

Presents an interview with Niki and Alan McCurry, who discuss the uses and features of the "Alaska Writing Program," a computer software product that can be used in writing classrooms. Explains its origins, shows how it centers on the writing process, and discusses ways of using the program in the classroom. (HB)

Outlines the fields that can contribute research results to a theoretical understanding of broad goals that can govern design choices in on-line documentation. Suggests five theoretical precepts and pulls together research pertinent to the four main forms of on-line documentation: tutorials, assistance, messages, and modes of control. (HTH)

Describes clientele who could benefit from software being developed at University of Iowa for writing effective prose; what these authoring tools do and how they work; and design standards likely to produce a successful product. The software's design scheme, general design principles and objectives, and educational potential are discussed. (MBR)

Describes the parallels between writing in English and LOGO in planning, audience awareness, and revision and gives guidelines for making students aware of these useful ideas. (CRH)

Presents specific practical suggestions about evaluating and selecting word processing programs and text editing programs for students learning to write on microcomputers. (CRH)

Discusses use of multimedia software in a Mt. Pleasant, Texas, elementary school, and asserts that the key to writing success is "postwriting", which means publication of the work in some form. Suggests online forums for the publication of children's writing, and provides brief descriptions of four online student publishers, including…

Describes in detail many of the current computer software products with which students can improve their writing. Outlines and critiques current computer offerings, including grammar checking software, drafting and revision software, on-line writing guides, and style analysis software. (HB)

Discusses the social nature of collaborative writing and describes collaborative writing in the workplace and the classroom. Discusses the kinds of computer-supported technology available to support such collaboration, and associated problems. Notes research questions needing to be addressed for the next decade of computer-supported collaborative…

Grading essays and research papers can be the most trying part of any writing instructor's job. Fitting corrections, suggestions, and notes between double-spaced lines of text and into margins often creates a legibility problem, which only worsens when grading stacks of papers to meet deadlines. This essay describes electronic grading, a method…

A discussion is provided of the use of computers in writing instruction at the community and junior college level. After providing an account of the introduction of computer technology into the author's personal and professional life, the paper outlines ways in which the computer can be used to teach writing skills. Following an analysis of the…