The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the combination of word prediction and text-to-speech software on the writing process of translating. Participants for this study included 10 elementary and middle school students who had a diagnosis of disorder of written expression. A modified multiple case series was used to collect data…

In this article, I discuss research on the use of technology to support the writing of students with learning disabilities. Struggling writers can benefit from a wide range of computer applications for writing. Word processing, spelling checkers, word prediction, and speech recognition offer support for transcription and revision. Word processing…

This article describes features found in computer-supported writing applications, such as speech synthesis, word prediction, and grammar correction, which can support writers who have writing disabilities. The article suggests possible uses during various phases of the writing process, and provides a matrix identifying features contained in a…

Two case studies involving a secondary school student and a science graduate training to become a secondary teacher with writing and spelling difficulties indicated that sustained use of word processing and spelling checker programs helped both subjects improve spelling skills and become more independent writers. (CB)

The paper examines ways to use word processing programs to ameliorate children's writing problems. Case studies of three children contrast samples of their handwritten work and their compositions using word processing A list of word processing programs for use with children with special needs is included. (Author/DB)

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)

Writing problems common among many college students are "phrasal" errors such as limited vocabulary, inability to distinguish standard usage from slang or jargon, a tendency to frame thoughts in cliches, a peppering of meaningless intensifiers, and a gift for redundancy and wordiness. To help correct these problems, a text-checking system called…

This study examined the impact of a word prediction software program, Co:Writer, on the written output of 24 students with physical disabilities that affected their ability to write by hand. Surveys were completed by both students who used Co:Writer and their teachers/adult supporters in schools, and 10-minute writing samples were obtained from…

This review of the educational research literature considers issues and problems relating to use of microcomputers with word processing software to help reluctant basic writers revise and edit their writing. Studies cited expound the advantages and disadvantages of using microcomputers and word processing at all educational levels. (MBR)

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…

This paper synthesizes some of the many ideas and issues pertaining to research on the development of writing skills, and on creating new technologies for writing. Such technologies include computer-based production tools, videodiscs, and other mass storage technologies with potential for knowledge storing and structuring. The discussion also…

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)

This column describes British technological aids that can support children with communication and writing difficulties, including (1) writing aids such as predictive typing, abbreviation expansion systems, and alternative keyboards; and (2) socially interactive communication aids such as synthetic speech using portable computers. (JDD)

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)