There are many readability tools that instructors can use to help adult learners select reading materials. We describe and compare different types of readability tools: formulas calculated by hand, tools found on the Web, tools embedded in a word processing program, and readability tools found in a commercial software program. Practitioners do not…

Within the context of an introductory CS1 unit on algorithmic problem-solving, we are exploring the pedagogical value of a novel active learning activity--the "studio experience"--that actively engages learners with algorithm visualization technology. In a studio experience, student pairs are tasked with (a) developing a solution to an algorithm…

This study used a modified multiple-baseline design to determine the effects on the writing performance of seven students with special needs when a talking word processor with spell checker software was used independent of and in conjunction with word prediction software as accommodations in daily writing exercises. Results indicated that, in…

Students at the University of Edinburgh do almost all their work on computers, but at the end of the semester they are examined by handwritten essays. Intuitively it would be appealing to allow students the choice of handwriting or typing, but this raises a concern that perhaps this might not be "fair"--that the choice a student makes,…

The aims of this study were two-fold: firstly, to establish a method of applying consistent letter spacing to documents using MS Word, and secondly, to investigate the effect of increased letter spacing on the reading speeds of readers with low vision. Tests on 14 readers with low vision showed that increased letter spacing benefited their reading…

Three braille translation programs, which translate computerized text files into new files of ASCII representative grade 2 braille, are evaluated, including "Braille-Talk,""PC Braille," and "The Duxbury Translator." For each program, such items as documentation, ease of operation, formatting, embedded commands,…

Discussing available computer software for prompting for the kinds of computers likely to be used in writing programs, this paper concentrates on categorizing software programs and exploring their "uniquely electronic" features. The paper deals with the following questions: (1) What kinds of planning software are available? (2) What happens when…

Examines the contexts of human-computer interaction, and argues that understanding word-processing research done in that setting can enrich thinking about the impact of teaching writing with the use of computers. Suggests issues developed in recent word-processing studies that may interest future researchers. (KEH)

An array of desktop technologies, including integrated word processing software, presentation software, database software, electronic mail, and Internet search engines, can make a principal's life easier and more challenging. Administrators should devote sufficient time and commitment to honing their skills, sharing their knowledge via hands-on…

Discusses the capabilities and limitations of 10 computer programs that analyze writing style. Describes the mechanisms by which these programs read a text, analyze the writing style, and offer suggestions for improving writing style. (KEH)

Recent improvements in the human factors elements incorporated in the design of personal computer interfaces are illustrated by detailed analyses of two microcomputers and their word processors (Osborne 1/WordStar and Apple's Macintosh/MacWrite). The vital steps in operation are described through analyses of the behavioral requirements involved in…

Aspects and applications of word processing in the language classroom are examined, including software structure, keyboard and mouse use, advantages over print media for writing instruction, and possibilities for creating tables of contents, indexes, and chapters. A brief bibliography is included. (MSE)

Individualized educational programs (IEPs) written either by hand or by use of the "IEP Writer'" a specially designed word processing program, were compared. Results indicated that IEPs which were written using the program took less time and were of higher quality than were handwritten IEPs. (Author/DB)

The first of two articles discusses the current status of desktop publishing, including some of its benefits and limitations. The second article compares and critiques both hardware and software currently available for the Macintosh and for MS-DOS microcomputers. A glossary of typographic terms is included. (CLB)

Examines the work of five researchers who have conducted studies of writing with computers or writing with computer-assisted instruction in the following areas: composing with word processing; writing improvement attributed to computers; instructional software; computer networks for writing; and collaborative writing through telecommunications.…