In using software to write a scientific, technical, or other scholarly document, authors have essentially two options. They can either write it in a 'what you see is what you get' (WYSIWYG) editor such as a word processor, or write it in a text editor using a markup language such as HTML, LATEX, Markdown, or AsciiDoc. This paper gives an overview…

Presents methods for preparing technical documents on microcomputers by modifying WordStar and using inexpensive software to create scientific symbols and other characters needed. Procedures are described for use with a Zenith A-100 microcomputer and an Epson FX dot matrix printer, and may be adapted for other configurations. (LRW)

Microcomputers are used in a technical writing course to enhance instructor and student productivity, improve the quality of student writing performance, and prepare young engineers for future on-the-job communication tasks. Describes the microcomputer facility, software, and activities included in the course. Also provides information on the…

Technical writing instructors at Drexel University (Pennsylvania) use computers to excite students about something they usually regard as a chore. Most of the students are engineering majors, but do not necessarily know how to use a computer. However, they accept the necessity of following a logical set of commands, and that every program must be…

Asserts that the advantages of word processing for business writing classes are clear. Even though a teacher confronts giving up some lecture or discussion time, the hour spent in the lab frees students from tedious recopying, provides the teacher with professional-looking papers, and permits time for more writing assignments. (RAE)

Examines the rapidly growing role for technical communicators in the computer industry as members of the external design team. Describes the kinds of decisions they are responsible for with regard to all phases of product development--as user advocates, usability testers, screen designers, and online documentation specialists. (KEH)

This discussion of the computing network and word processing facilities available to professionals on the Indiana University campuses identifies the word and text processing needs of technical writers and faculty, describes the current computing network, and outlines both long- and short-range objectives, policies, and plans for meeting these…

Word processing software can accommodate the writing deficiencies of high-functioning, learning-disabled college students, but documentation frequently needs revision for increased user-friendliness, better instructional layout, less complex syntax, and repetition of key concepts. A sample revision of one program is presented, focusing on switch…

This paper presents the basics of "LATEX," a computerized typesetting program popular with mathematicians and other writers of technical papers, and compares it to conventional word processing programs. LATEX, which requires a text editor such as WordPad or NotePad--the text editor is used to produce and input file which the LATEX program…

The University of Tennessee has integrated computer technology into its business report and letter writing course, an 11-week course required of all business administration undergraduates. Basic principles of management and introduction to computer courses are prerequisites. Early course content emphasizes foundations of report writing, the…

Proposes that for students to gain the maximum benefits from the computer as an education and composition tool, teachers should incorporate the computer throughout the composing process. Describes the adaptation of computers in a specialized business and technical persuasive writing course. (MS)

Conference papers and descriptions of panels, workshops, and poster sessions are separated by topic into five "stems." The first stem, Advanced Technology Applications, contains papers covering advanced technology training, evaluation and applications of word processing equipment, publication databases, electronic and online…

A computer program that provides a routine assessment of a text is an important instructional aid. AT&T's system, Writer's Workbench, provides Colorado State University's business students feedback to achieve a clear writing style in letters, memos, and reports. (MLW)

This article describes Allegro, a computer-assisted report writing procedure developed by a rural school psychology staff to aid in the rapid development and creation of high quality psycho-educational reports. The program's structure, procedural steps, and function are detailed and examples of the program structure are provided through printouts…

This book has been designed to assist researchers in the social sciences and education fields who are interested in learning how information technologies can help them successfully navigate the research process. Most researchers are familiar with the use of programs like SPSS to analyze data, but many are not aware of other ways information…