Presents a heuristic for finding appropriate word-processing software for business communication classes. Discusses hardware considerations, price, required training, company support, and security issues related to software selection decisions. (MM)

Discusses ways to integrate computers effectively into the freshman English course. Addresses some objections to using computers in the composition classroom. (MM)

Describes a sociology course in which the word processor was used as an aid for teaching writing. States that the personal computer could have its greatest pedagogical impact as a device to improve students writing. Concludes that word processors have been shown to be effective tools for encouraging students to write and improve required papers.…

The article notes principles of adult learning and lists computer software programs appropriate to the development of (1) reading, writing, and study skills; (2) career and job development; and (3) word processing and other computer skills. (DB)

Examines the effects of word processing on writing quality and the amount of text produced by basic writers. Finds that students using computers wrote more, but that there was no difference in quality between those who used a word processor and those who did not. (MS)

Word processing does not, in itself, teach revision. Students with incomplete revision strategies will not begin revising at a higher level simply by using a word processor. New computer strategies for teaching revision are needed--revision strategies that use the computer to reorganize, elaborate, and strengthen what has already been written. For…

This paper addresses the question of how grammar checkers may help or hinder students by analyzing the performance of the Microsoft Word 97's Grammar Checker at flagging and explaining errors frequently made by college students. Thousands of sentences were fed into the program. Results indicate that it caught some of the errors reliably (e.g.…

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)

Reports an interview with writer Ken Kesey. Discusses Kesey's cooperative novel-writing project with a class of graduate students from the University of Oregon. (MM)

Annotates a selection of text-analysis and writing instruction software programs (excluding word processing), both available and in development. (MS)

The use of desktop publishing at schools, colleges, and universities is described. The advantages include: shorter turnaround, reduced costs, more control and capability, and more fun. However, rapid change and quick obsolescence are inevitable. (MLW)

Reviews studies on the effects of introducing word processing to basic writers. Presents the findings of an original pilot study which concludes that computer instruction causes basic students to write more. Suggests ways of improving instruction and obtaining more consistent results in future studies. (HB)

This paper describes one accreditation team leader's experience with coordinating the entire team accreditation review process on personal computer and offers 14 suggestions for future implementation. The leaders of the accreditation team describes pre-accreditation visit arrangements to facilitate the use of computers. He polled team members on…

Describes one teacher's use of a "computer daybook"--an online journal that keeps track of students' progress in learning word processing and in grappling with the problems of writing. Lists several prompts useful for students beginning to learn word processing. (ARH)

Publications managers agree that no phase of the publication process is the same with desktop publishing. The new technology means publications managers must find new ways to cope with the accompanying situations. Managing client relations, resources, and data entry are discussed. (MLW)