|
Using portables can help students who:
- find typing easier than writing
- are more engaged in a project that is collaborative
- are motivated by using technology
- would get more out of a field trip if notes were taken
during the expedition and used later, as a basis for a writing activity.
Text entered into a portable can be imported into other programs,
for editing, enhancing, and publishing. Portable devices are very
useful in implementing lesson plans that encourage cooperative
learning, where one student is the recorder or where there is shared
writing. They are also great on field trips for
recording data.
What does research show?
Research demonstrates that students' interest in writing is
increased using computers, and devices such as E-mates and AlphaSmarts.
Writing on a computer has a positive effect on the quality of student
writing. This impact is greatest for students with learning
disabilities and students in the early elementary grades.
References:
- Etchison, Craig (1989). Word
Processing: A Helpful Tool for Basic Writers. Computers and
Composition, 6(2), 33—43.
- Hannafin, Michael J. & Dalton, David W. (1987). The
Effects of Word Processing on Written Composition. The Journal of
Educational Research, 80 (July/Aug.) p. 338—42.
- Kerchner, Leanne B. & Kistinger, Barbara J. (1984). Language
Processing/Word Processing: Written Expression, Computers, and Learning
Disabled Students. Learning Disability Quarterly, 7(4), 329—335.
- Padgett, Ann L. (2000). Journal Writing in the
Elementary School: Word Processor vs. Paper and Pencil. Master of
Arts Research Paper, Johnson Bible College. ERIC: ED441255.
- Vacc, Nancy N. (1987). Word Processor versus
Handwriting: A Comparative Study of Writing Samples Produced by Mildly
Mentally Handicapped Students. Exceptional
Children, 54(2), 156—165.
- Williamson, Michael L. & Pence, Penny. (1989). Word
Processing and Student Writers. In Bruce K. Britton & Shawn M.
Glynn (Eds.), Computer Writing Environments: Theory, Research, and
Design (pp. 96—127). Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum & Associates.
Next Subtopic: How
-To Instructions
Return
to Tips for Differentiated Instruction Home Page.
|
