The central theme in this journal issue is the use of the computer in teaching reading. The following articles are included: "The Use of Computers in the Reading Program: A District Approach" by Nora Forester; "Reading and Computers: A Partnership" by Dr. Martha Irwin; "Rom, Ram and Reason" by Candice Carlile; "Word Processing: Practical Ideas and…

While teachers of writing and related disciplines have become increasingly convinced of the value of computers in classrooms, there have also been reports of obstacles that arise when innovating with computers and word processing in the schools. Educators must determine whether the problems are mere inconveniences or potential barriers to the…

A project was undertaken to evaluate software available for teaching business and office skills and to determine which software products are currently being used by business and office occupations teachers throughout West Virginia. Ninety-four of the 164 West Virginia teachers to whom a questionnaire was mailed responded to the survey. Although…

The problems and extent of adult illiteracy are presented in this workshop report, which explores how computer and communication technology might be applied in adult literacy education. The introduction provides statistics and a discussion of past and current attempts to teach illiterate adults. The major portion of the report focuses on what…

Research about writing and the teaching of writing has demonstrated that writing is a process, that thinking and writing are inextricably connected, that workshop and tutorial methods are more efficient than teacher or textbook dominated instruction in writing, and that correctness does not have to be a major concern in the teaching of writing.…

Presents a categorization system that allows potential microcomputer users to make more reasoned, conscious choices to ensure that a range of software types and activities are available for their instructional programs. (SRT)

Describes the computer literacy requirement of the Professional Teacher Preparation Program at Arizona State University. Highlights include microcomputer-based software used; word processing; database skills; spreadsheet tasks; teacher utilities for producing graphic materials, generating tests and practice exercises, and keeping records; and…

Shows how basic writing students' knowledge of how to use the computer to produce new, revised drafts of their essays in approximately an hour led to their productive use of word processing. (EL)

Discussion of uses of microcomputers in teaching college level composition covers software and hardware currently available, future trends in development of both, suggestions for teachers on how to introduce students to this writing medium most constructively, and the role and ultimate usefulness of microcomputers in writing instruction.…

Description of a pilot word processing program instituted in two sixth-grade classes highlights teacher experiences and reactions of students obtained from an end of the year survey. Motivation and attitudes, word processing techniques, suggestions for expanded activities, and recent happenings are covered. (EJS)

The limitations of microcomputers, their potential uses on college campuses, and what should be considered when purchasing them are discussed. Specific uses of microcomputer networks, including one at Kansas City Kansas Community College, are outlined. (Author/MLW)

Explores teachers' perceptions about computer use in writing instruction. Topics include emerging computer technology, including telecommunications and hypermedia; evolution of software, including word processing, desktop publishing, and multimedia; issues related to implementing technology, including the teacher's role; and suggested learning…

Describes the computer-assisted composition laboratory at Methodist College (North Carolina) and explains software developed for freshman composition that combines skills for writing essays, word processing, and a spell-checker. Faculty and student attitudes are reported, and suggestions for future freshman composition courses are given. (LRW)

Argues that computers can be useful partners in the writing process even for reluctant or poor writers. Describes from a linguistic perspective factors that help explain why writing is a difficult task and briefly describes several computer programs which are based on such factors. (RS)

Presents some of the better-known models to describe the process to writing. Combines some of their common features into a framework that is useful for thinking and talking about the roles that computers may play in supporting "the writing process." (MG)