The article presents a review of the literature on the advantages of word processing for both nonhandicapped and visually handicapped students, and discusses a criterion-reference checklist that allows teachers to assess students' skills in use of the Viewscan Textline and text editor as well as providing ongoing documentation of the students'…

There is an abundance of educational software available, the quality of which ranges from invaluable to a waste of money. The following guidelines should make shopping for software as painless as possible: (1) know your objectives; (2) be sure the software fits your equipment; (3) consider dealer support; (4) consider brand names first; (5) check…

The concerns of how personal computers can be used to increase the overall effectiveness of education are addressed. Topics discussed include: availability; teacher use; word processing; calculators; class use; computer-assisted-instruction; and simulations. Thorough faculty inservice on computer enhanced education is suggested before implementing…

This book provides a brief and succinct introduction to AppleWorks and is designed for use by teachers who are already familiar with the three AppleWorks tools: the word processor, the database, and the spreadsheet. "Classworks" (developed for grades 8 and 9) emphasizes computer work in which the teacher serves as troubleshooter,…

Extension leadership articulated several broad goals for the use of microcomputers within cooperative extension. These included providing information, service to clients, office automation, and enhancement of the educational process. A questionnaire was administered regarding microcomputer use within Washington State University County Cooperative…

Four teachers discuss using the word processor to (1) teach writing, (2) help students with dyslexia, and (3) access an information retrieval service for research papers, as well as for other classroom purposes. (EL)

Word processors can be used in the classroom to help teach both the mechanics of writing and the process as a whole. The computer can facilitate student/teacher conferencing, peer evaluation, peer collaboration, and purposeful writing. (DF)

The article describes typical kinds of writing problems found in fourth grade learning disabled students and discusses ways in which the computer makes the child's planning and composing problems more accessible to teacher help. Similarly, pitfalls of such accessibility are also cited. (CL)

The use of word processing in teaching English language classes is discussed as practiced at an Israeli secondary school. General guidelines are outlined, and basic step-by-step illustrated instructions are provided. (LB)

This survey of the literature provides a review and synthesis of research findings and current thought on the use of microcomputers by school children. Modes of learning and taxonomies of learning are described, and the results of recent surveys indicating the number of computers in schools and the amount of access by students are reported.…

Concludes that two uses of the computer are potentially helpful in social studies instruction: (1) as a data storage and manipulation tool and (2) as a writing tool for composition. Entertains diverse opinions on the necessity of computer literacy. (JK)

Reviews 34 computer programs designed to help freshman writing students and their teachers either by providing instruction, supporting the composing process, or helping to manage classroom activities. Most of the programs run on microcomputers and are currently available; a few are included because they indicate interesting trends. (MBR)

A productive language exercise that uses the computer and a variation on the cloze procedure by deleting every third word and requiring the student to insert a grammatically and thematically acceptable term is described. (MSE)

Instructional strategies for teaching learning-disabled students to use word processing for writing are considered. The features of three word processing programs useful for these students are compared for usefulness in a variety of curriculum applications. (Author/DB)

Presents a computer-assisted activity that helps students discover the importance of choosing words carefully. With a word processing program, small groups of students prepare creative, fill-in-the-blank challenges in which classmates must replace missing adjectives or verbs. (SM)