Describes uses of the microcomputer that can encourage the discovery that written language is meaningful, purposeful, and worthwhile. (FL)

Notes that preparing manuals electronically is a growing requirement for technical writing professionals and that technical writers now often work concurrently with illustrators, designers, and engineers. Discusses how, using a desktop computer and adapting some software solutions, students can produce "professional" engineering diagrams and…

Indicates that English faculty are discovering the value of computers for student writers through the use of word processing systems with dictionary and editorial functions. Discusses benefits, program building, and faculty and administrator involvement, as well as appropriate software and the place of microcomputers in writing centers. (DMM)

Describes an English instructor's gradual conversion to technical writing instructor and her antipathy toward the inevitable conversion to writing instruction using a computer. (HTH)

Twelve elementary children with reading and writing difficulties substantially improved their reading and writing skills and strategies through a microcomputer project. Four software factors in successful applications were noted, including the use of microcomputers to lower risks encountered in making errors. (CL)

Discusses the following issues associated with designing ideal university microcomputer classrooms: (1) campus vs. departmental classrooms; (2) finding space; (3) furnishings; (4) classroom layout; (5) selecting hardware; (6) selecting software; and (7) funding. (MM)

Word processors can be used in the classroom to help teach both the mechanics of writing and the process as a whole. The computer can facilitate student/teacher conferencing, peer evaluation, peer collaboration, and purposeful writing. (DF)

Designed for use by South Carolina school districts planning to include microcomputer language arts software for grades one through eight in teaching the Basic Skills Assessment Program (BSAP) objectives in grades one through eight, this booklet presents titles of software programs given a favorable review by review services, and correlates them…

Reviews 34 computer programs designed to help freshman writing students and their teachers either by providing instruction, supporting the composing process, or helping to manage classroom activities. Most of the programs run on microcomputers and are currently available; a few are included because they indicate interesting trends. (MBR)

Cites materials on available computer programs for computer assisted instruction in composition, how CAI and word processing programs are being used together for instruction in composition, and what results can be anticipated. (HTH)

Examines common curricular needs in written language instruction, and the advantages of using micorocmputers to teach descriptive writing. An example of an interactive computer-assisted instructional model for writing is discussed. Fourteen references are listed. (MER)

A computer program titled "The Bald Headed Chicken," written for the Apple IIE and Apple IIGS, is described. The program enables primary-level students, as well as limited-English-speaking students, to manipulate graphics and text to create their own stories which can then be saved on disk or printed. (Author/JDD)

Having students create personalized stationery is a good way to promote student writing. Children of all ages can design computer-generated stationery in just a few steps using predrawn or original graphics and a variety of typefaces. The article describes three programs that enable students to create stationery. (SM)

This study examined students' attitudes towards the use of computer technology in composition instruction. Subjects were 122 college juniors and seniors enrolled in seven sections of a technical writing course. Students received either 10 weeks of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in a computer environment, 5 weeks of CAI in a computer…

Generally, there are three kinds of software that could be used in college writing courses: word processing programs, interactive questionnaires, and text parsers. Although the benefits of these programs are well known, they still pose some problems. Word processors, for example, have been designed to "process" existing text; few have…