Describes the Local Area Network (LAN), a project in which students used LAN-based word processing and electronic mail software as the center of a writing process approach. Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of networking. (MM)

Examines the ways various computer configurations are being used as writing tools in schools, within a framework of a description of technology that recognizes the constraints that technological components place upon users. Describes programs using computers in a special room, student "owned" computers, and computers in the classroom.…

A practicum was designed to provide opportunities for second-grade students from low socioeconomic school communities to use computer technology in the writing process. Staff development training was designed and conducted to increase teachers' knowledge, experience, and attitudes toward using the computer as a tool for writing. Providing…

Argues that incorporating computers into writing across the curriculum programs is important because computers are becoming more common and more essential in business and professional writing. Argues that the success of institutionalizing the computer depends on convincing teachers that teaching the processes of writing and thinking is essential.…

Studies the effects of word processing on the composing processes of six basic writers. Concludes that quantity and quality of revisions are not likely to increase, that word processing initially causes many interventions in composing, and that better writers are more likely to use word processing programs in advantageous ways. (RS)

Two factors contributing to the change in writing instruction have been (1) the research investigating the way writing is taught and (2) the computer. Proponents of the various writing models endorse writing as an ongoing, multi-stage process, with equal emphasis given to each of the stages. Educational computing has undergone a change of focus…

A practicum was developed to improve process writing skills of seventh grade at-risk students by increasing interest through the use of the microcomputer, word processing software, and telecommunications technology. Sixteen students wrote a series of eight "basic" hand-written essays as part of the regular language arts class. Students then…

Computers and networks have opened new opportunities for recognition experiences in schools. Students gain the potential for increased recognition through the exchange of their writing with students in other classrooms in their own school, in other parts of the country, or in other parts of the world. Reorganizing and editing text for publication…

Compared the effects of computer-based word processing and writing by hand on 14 third and fourth graders' attitudes and performance in the writing process. Found that third graders tended to make more revisions and edits when using a word processor, whereas fourth graders made more changes in their handwritten drafts. (MDM)

The first section of this report lists a variety of advantages and disadvantages of educational applications of Local Area Networks (LANs), with descriptive and evaluative comments on how the Union County Computers in the Curricula Network Project (Cranford, New Jersey) dealt with each. The second section of the report describes the following…

Describes the Computer Pals across the World Project, which provides an opportunity for students to write letters, poetry, reports, and newspaper articles for fellow students around the globe. Argues that it provides a real context for developing reading and writing abilities, cultural awareness, motivation, and keyboarding skills. (RS)

Describes a pilot project designed to foster quality literacy projects by fifth-grade students; establish a positive working relationship between fifth-grade teachers and the Chapter 1 reading teachers; and provide an enriching atmosphere for the use of computers. Notes that the project uses portfolios and a process model of writing. Notes staff…