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…

Presents specific practical suggestions about evaluating and selecting word processing programs and text editing programs for students learning to write on microcomputers. (CRH)

Suggests techniques for the efficient use of one word processor among many students by dividing the writing process into stages of prewriting, writing, editing, and publishing. Examples of exercises and evaluations, a guide to producing a book, and a list of publications that accept children's writing are provided. (CLB)

Discussion of the use of computers in elementary schools highlights a study of four districts in Canada. Topics discussed include the use of word processing; the use of LOGO for tutoring purposes; the role of the teacher; and guidelines for integrating computer-assisted learning (CAL) into the elementary school curriculum. (16 references) (LRW)

Focusing on ways to teach fourth-grade students the machine skills they need to make the computer a fluent writing tool, this study sought to identify the word processing skills that students need to learn and the ones that are most difficult, and the instructional approaches that work best in teaching word processing skills. The problems and…

Divided into two sections, this report outlines several components of computer based instruction in the composing process. The first section, which focuses on the use of computers in editing, generating ideas, and producing text, presents a users' manual for composition instruction on a microcomputer, a general description of how computer based…

These guidelines for designing and operating a computer assistance facility (microlab) to teach college level composition cover the following areas: resource materials on computers for teaching English; flexibility of microlab design; microlab software and hardware (microcomputers and printers); writing microlab manuals; research potential of the…

Describes a representative sample of recent research on the uses of microcomputer-based word processing in composition instruction. Topics discussed include revision strategies; collaborative writing; student attitudes and motivation; writing quality; implementation of word processing; problems; equity issues; and questions for future research.…