Computerized word processing can be a valuable tool for writing instruction because the machines make it easier for students to properly revise and correct their work. Ways that teachers and students can use the machines are described, and problems, such as limited access to computer terminals and the necessity for students to type, are noted. (PP)

A computer-based collaborative approach to writing like the Daedalus Instructional System (DIS) can help students to learn to write for communication and to read for understanding. The DIS, created to reflect the collaborative learning philosophy, is networked, and fosters communication through reading and writing. The system provides CONTACT, an…

Microcomputer technology can assist students in two important phases of basic skills instruction--acquisition and application. Providing interactive practice with immediate feedback in a way that most students find motivating, microcomputers can help students build a solid foundation in such basic skills as punctuation use. In addition, word…

The booklet is divided into two parts: theory and method. Theory includes: (1) About corresponding rules for project work and process writing; (2) Introduction to process writing; (3) How to organize the teaching in primary and lower secondary school with only a few computers; (4) What about children who are not familiar with the keyboard?; (5)…

Using word processing in the elementary school writing curriculum is advantageous for both students and teachers. Word processors motivate students to spend more time on task, encourage changes and rewriting, and eliminate concern for neatness and the tedium of writing (and rewriting) by hand. Teachers can see that students using the word…

Describes the attitudes with which children received the word processor in their daily classroom activities. (CRH)

Focuses on three writing programs involving laptop computers for reluctant writers within the Seattle Public Schools. Notes that each program uses their laptops in very different ways to impact the teaching and practice of writing in schools. (MG)

This study compared the grade equivalents of students with learning disabilities in English composition classes using traditional lecture and word processing formats, to determine which format would best accommodate these students at San Antonio College (Texas). Students in the word processing class were instructed on the use of the computer…

Describes how "The Children's Writing and Publishing Center" (a desktop publishing program for elementary students) combines word processing with computer graphics and motivates students to write letters. (MM)

This report presents first year (1984-85) findings of The Writing Project, a 2-year school-based study of the use of word processing to improve learning-disabled children's writing skills. Emphasis is on how remedial teachers can integrate computers into their writing activities in resource rooms and classrooms. Based in three Massachusetts school…

This report presents first year (1984-85) findings of The Writing Project, a 2-year school-based study of the use of word processing to improve learning disabled children's writing skills. Based in three Massachusetts school districts, the project focused in the first year on intensive observation of 14 fourth grade children as they wrote with…

Describes students' reactions to and comments on an experimental writing course in which all essays were composed on computer terminals using XEDIT and WATERLOO SCRIPT. Students had favorable reactions to revision ease and enjoyability factor, but reacted unfavorably to learning word processing, equipment failure, and confinement to one writing…

Notes the advantages grade 10 English students found in using a word processor: (1) they spend more time reworking text, (2) they are better able to determine needed change, (3) they find the revision process less arduous, and (4) they seem to find it easier to develop a sense of audience. (MM)

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 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.…