Assesses how three basic writers adapted word processing to their writing. Finds that basic writers who were given little guidance in integrating the computer into their composing processes generated little material on the screen and in other ways made far less than full use of the word processor. (RS)

The article reviews word processing software and software to build keyboarding skills, as used with students needing to improve their mastery of the writing process. Criteria for selection of word processing programs are discussed and specific word processing programs are compared. Instructional suggestions are offered. (DB)

Describes a study of changes in attitudes and writing performance of learning-disabled (LD) college students resulting from a mainstream writing class employing a workshop format and microcomputer word processors. The LD students' performance level was consistent with the non-LD students in the class, and their writing attitudes improved. (DMM)

Reports a study of the initial effects of word processing on essay-writing performance and on writing apprehension. Concludes that college freshmen using word processing showed greater progress in writing performance from pre to post essay tests than did those using traditional methods, but they did not show significant difference in writing…

To characterize the influence of various constraints on students' composing processes, a study investigated the (1) type of instructions students received prior to their composing and revising sessions, (2) mode of production--whether a computer or paper and pencil was used for composition and revision, and (3) effect of skill level on students'…

A qualitative study examined the revision of writing on the word processor of two re-entering students in advanced composition in comparison to three traditional-age students. Its purposes were to see whether there was any difference in adaptation to the word processor between the two groups and whether each writer had a consistent revision…

A course on computers and writing for special education middle school students who are reluctant writers is described. The background of the course, the role of the computer, student attitudes, outcomes, and success factors are discussed. An added advantage was the improved communication between regular and special educators. (DB)

Limited ability students, reluctant to revise and edit written compositions, frequently produce final drafts that are below the minimum standards set by high school English departments. The use of the microcomputer and word processing may provide a means by which students can revise and improve their finished products. Programs are continuously…

Intended for educators on the postsecondary level, this annotated bibliography lists ERIC documents and relevant articles concerning computer assisted instruction. Specifically, it contains citations on the following subjects: (1) the philosophy behind computer usage, (2) general information to help decide whether to use computers in a writing…

The computer can be a powerful tool to help students who are having difficulty learning the skills of prewriting, composition, revision, and editing. Specific software is suggested for each phase, as well as for classroom publishing. (Author/JDD)

A case study examined the writing problems of Jay, a freshman composition student at the University of Massachusetts, to determine how teachers should handle students whose composing styles are not suited to writing with word processors. Interviews, classroom observation, and careful analyses of Jay's essays in progress and logsheets were…

Reviews research on the efficacy of word processing programs in teaching students how to revise their papers and speculates on what kinds of programs will be available in the future. (JC)

An ethnographic study of a writing class learning to use the computer as a writing tool indicated that learning word processing while learning how to write was a highly stressful experience for some students, and that a word processing course taught by writing teachers who attend to the special needs of writers should be available separate from…