Describes implementation of a word processor in an elementary school, focusing on instructional strategies used with learning-disabled students aged 7-13. Objectives, materials, activities, evaluation, and rewards are summarized for six modules covering hardware, disk care, software, initializing and saving on disk, word processing modes, and…

The study compared achievement and attitudes of Utah State University students who experienced two different methods of teaching business communication. The experimental group used microcomputers equipped with word processing, spelling, and grammar packages. Results show no difference in students' writing ability or attitude toward writing as a…

Investigated three methods of teaching word-processing skills to rehabilitation counseling students (N=26). Students trained with a "manual plus demonstration" performed significantly better than a "manual only" or a "manual plus lecture" group. Student attitude toward computer technology improved regardless of the training method used. (BH)

Course evaluations of a business writing class that used the IBM personal computer with WordStar word processing software revealed students' enthusiasm for the microcomputer's word processing capabilities. A number of students commented on how much the computer simplified the processes of composing, revising, and editing. In addition to the speed…

Summer Tech '84 was the product of a joint venture of the College of Education of Ohio State University and the Columbus Ohio Public Schools to provide instruction on the use of microcomputers to citizens of the Columbus metropolitan area. For four weeks, 80 different 10-hour classes were offered in eight areas: introductory computer literacy,…

Instructors who are sensitive to the needs of adult students promote a classroom atmosphere conducive to learning. Students learn best when following a well-organized program of instruction. (JOW)

This study investigated student preferences for either teacher-written or computer-generated marking of written compositions. Ninety-seven high school students typed assigned compositions on a word processor. Three skills pre-selected by the teacher were checked on each composition. Students were randomly assigned to treatments so that, on the…

Assesses the microcomputer's effects on the process and quality of business writing, focusing on writing anxiety, computer anxiety, time spent in writing, writing quality, and the relationship of gender to these variables. Concludes that the most significant predictor of quality is initial writing ability. (MM)

Describes four computer program features to avoid when using microcomputers for instruction: (1) fill-justified text, which may slow reading rate; (2) drill randomization, which may increase learning time needed; (3) timed pauses, which are based on averages that are seldom realized; and (4) flashing text, which may create negative attitudes among…

This paper describes an undergraduate-level course designed to teach the applications of computers that are most relevant in the social sciences, especially psychology. After an introduction to the basic concepts and terminology of computing, separate units were devoted to word processing, data analysis, data acquisition, artificial intelligence,…

The effect of microcomputer word processing on college students' writing was investigated with three sections of a required freshman English course at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Half of the subjects were randomly selected to use the university microcomputer in a laboratory setting to write eight essays, while the other half worked in…

The ability of the theory of reasoned action to predict computer-related attitudes and behavior was demonstrated through two studies: a questionnaire on computer behaviors and attitudes; and word processing training involving various levels of persuasive communication based on belief statements identified in the first study. (22 references) (MES)

This paper presents the results of a study designed to determine the computer anxiety, attitudes, and confidence levels of students enrolling in preservice teacher education computing courses. Specific questions compared these students with national norms, and looked to see whether sex, age, or past computer experiences had any effect on measures…

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)

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)