CCF20110401001

BI

Online Writing Lab

Purpose: To show how programs written for microcomputers relateto the process of writing,

Thesis: Microcomputer programs can have a positive effect on students' writing if both the potentials and limitations of the programs are understood,

Audience: Current coiiege and university students.

Microcomputer Programs and the Process of Writing

I. Major Steps in the Writing Process

A. Organizing

B. Writing the first draft

C. Evaluating

D. Revising

II. Writing Programs for the Microcomputer

A. Types of Programs and Their Relationship to the Writing Process

1. Thought

a. Use in organizing

b. Use in revising

2. Word Processors

a, Use in writing the first draft

b. Use in revising

3. Analytical programs: grammar, style, speiiing

a. Use in evaluating

b. Use in revising

B. Positive and Negative Aspects of Computer Writing Programs

1. Positive features

a. Less time spent on repetitive or mechanical writing tasks

b. Greater fiexibility and versatiiity in writing process

c. Increased revision strategies

d. Specific learning possibilities

2. Negative features

a. The increased time spent on iearning software programs and cornputers

b. The avai!ability of hardware and software

c. The unreaiistic expectations of users

1) A cure-ail for writing problems

2) A way to avoid learning correct grammar/syntax/speliing

3) A method to reduce time spent on writing proficiently

4) A simple process to learn and execute

C. Futurę Possibilities of Computer Programs for Writing

1. Rapid change

2. Improved programs

3. Increased use and availability

4. Morę realistic assessment of va!ue - critica! work

The fofiowing information must remain intact on every handout printed for dlstribution.

Use of this site, including printing and distributing our handouts, constitutes acceptance of our terms sod

conditions of fair use, availabie at

httn://owi. enalish.Durdue.edu/lab/fairuse.html.