Second language (L2) writing research has demonstrated that young learners discuss linguistic issues, make use of feedback, and show a generally positive disposition toward writing tasks. However, many issues deserve further investigation. Regarding task implementation, few studies have been conducted with young learners writing individually, and…

Examines the contexts of human-computer interaction, and argues that understanding word-processing research done in that setting can enrich thinking about the impact of teaching writing with the use of computers. Suggests issues developed in recent word-processing studies that may interest future researchers. (KEH)

Examines the collegiate version of "Writer's Workbench" (a computer program that analyzes the surface elements of students' writing and provides feedback to assist in revision) on the writing of sophomore technical writing students. Concludes that "Writer's Workbench" can be an effective but limited tool for technical writing…

Assessed the effects of students' use of "Writer's Workbench" (a collection of computer textual analysis programs) in the business communication class. Found that assignment grades improved by the third semester, which may reflect the extensive refinements the authors made to the programs after the first two semesters. (PD)

Discusses the social nature of collaborative writing and describes collaborative writing in the workplace and the classroom. Discusses the kinds of computer-supported technology available to support such collaboration, and associated problems. Notes research questions needing to be addressed for the next decade of computer-supported collaborative…

Investigates the need to include computer screens in documentation for software using a graphical user interface. Describes the uses and purposes of "minimal manuals" and their principles. Studies student reaction to their use of one of three on-screen manuals: screens, icon, and button. Finds some benefit for including icon and button…

"Cognoter(tm)" and "CB" software, two new computer-based writing tools that rely on shared texts and real-time communication among participants and support collaborative invention, have implications for invention pedagogy and research. Cognoter improves on current invention aids by combining a brainstorming tool, a graphical…

Uses four case studies to explore four areas in which computers affect the process of tutoring other writers: tutor-to-client dialogue; macrostructural revision; surface editing; and printing. Shows how the computer has some unexpected catalytic effects on human interactions. (MM)

Reviews pertinent research and suggests theoretical precepts that can serve as guiding principles in making decisions about the design of on-line documentation. (FL)

Assesses the capabilities and limitations of a collaborative writing software program used in a French foreign language writing course. Discusses the value of collaborative writing in foreign language writing; provides an introduction to collaborative writing software; and offers practical classroom activities. (SR)

The development of narrative competence is an important part of the English curriculum in the early secondary school years. A study examined how four seventh-grade girls (two novice and two expert writers) responded to computer-based metacognitive guidance in the form of procedural facilitations. The facilitations were designed to assist the…

As part of a three-year federally funded research program intended to shed light on the writing processes of learning disabled college-aged writers (with special emphasis on the use of technology in creating workable mainstreamed curricula), this paper records in an interview format the responses of students to the program, including word…

Discusses the potential of microcomputers for accomplishing educational goals beyond drill and practice software. Describes a program in which students have access to a computer-based network that connects classrooms in four states, which allows peer response, develops a sense of audience, and gives students greater control over their literacy…

Provides an update and expansion of an earlier "Delphi Study" which predicted changes that might occur resulting from the impact of technology on the teaching of writing. Provides comments based on recent research. Discusses two books that focus specifically on technology and writing. (MG)

Illustrates how the following educational goals are being reached with existing software and hardware: integrating reading and writing instruction; providing a new sense of community among readers; and encouraging a shared exploration of cultural contexts. (MM)