The research literature on L2 writing processes contains a multitude of insights that could inform writing instruction, but writing teachers are constrained in their capacity to make use of these insights insofar as they lack detailed information about how their students actually engage in the processes of writing. At the same time,…

Presents five articles that consider computer keyboarding instruction at the elementary school level. Highlights include keyboard familiarization techniques that do not require a computer; integrating keyboarding skills into the rest of the curriculum; and Type-Right, an inexpensive laptop computer dedicated to teaching keyboarding. (LRW)

Describes the process required to learn to write Chinese ideographs, and investigates the possibilities for developing a computer-aided language learning tutor. Character stroke sequences are described; a modified keyboard for Chinese character entry is discussed; and interaction between the student and the tutor is examined. (11 references) (LRW)

Discussion of computer input devices focuses on the keyboard, mouse, and touchscreen. Related research is reviewed concerning user preference and performance; advantages and disadvantages of each device are described; guidelines for selection are discussed; and suggestions for future research are offered. (19 references) (LRW)

Illustrates how the use of an appropriately designed keyboard can help with the learning of a set of symbols for transcribing English and at the same time provide learners of English with a picture of its phonological system. Although the computer has an instrumental role in the development of the idea, it is not essential for its implementation.…

Describes microcomputer-based hardware, software, and adaptive devices that are available to help disabled students based on experiences in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Highlights include speech synthesizers; devices for computer monitors that bypass the need to use a keyboard; switches sensitive to light, movement, and air; and word…

The major developmental goal of the Keyboarding, Reading, Spelling (KRS) program was to teach reading and language skills to elementary school students by integrating computer assisted instruction with an instructional method which: is superior to existing programs; takes maximum advantage of the computer's potential; and teaches keyboarding and…

Examines the effects of gender, personality, and keyboard control on foreign language and interaction patterns of 60 intermediate French students in a computer-assisted language learning environment at the university level. Results indicate that learning achievement and interaction patterns at the computer are more strongly related to personality…

This report, abstracted from a larger research study on children's emerging literacy, focuses on the use and influence of computers in the education of children seven years old and younger. Highlights include placement and introduction of computers in the classroom; benefits of working in groups; keyboarding; and research on program effectiveness.…

Computers, computer programs, and other novel and vivid technological applications to language learning can unintentionally redirect attentional resources and therefore increase the salience of unplanned as well as targeted features. Incidental activities such as keyboarding (Henry, 1992), manipulation of a mouse (Meunier, 1996), and other…

Describes the use of "Happy Hands" instructional materials and techniques for grades K-3 develop keyboarding knowledge and skills for computer-assisted instruction. Color coding techniques are explained; the use of dictation is discussed; keyboarding games and software are described; and the development of writing skills through…

The 24 papers in these proceedings describe computer technology and its many applications to the educational process. Topics discussed include computer systems in the classroom of the future; how to evaluate a school's computer program; computer use in special education; computer science and the liberal arts; keyboarding issues; making the…

The Flex Lab at Santa Fe Community College, in New Mexico, is a self-paced, computer-assisted training center that allows students to accommodate college credit courses into their schedules. The Lab offers courses in introductory computers, keyboarding, and various computer programs and emphasizes several features of the Personalized System of…

A teacher of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) reading courses at Doshisha University (Japan) describes classroom techniques and activities involving use of the computer and assesses the benefits, difficulties, and instructional results. Data are drawn from two ESL classes using computer-based instruction (CBI) offered in 1 year. The primary…

Discusses features in the physical environment that need to be considered for integrated learning systems (ILSs). Highlights include ergonomics; lighting, including contrast and colors; space, furniture, and equipment, including keyboard, monitor, software, and printer; ambient noise and acoustics; temperature, humidity, and air quality control;…