Technological Indeterminacy

Written Communication Jan 1994

CYNTHIA GREENLEAF

Abstract

This study proceeds from the assumption that computers do not function as independent variables in classrooms, but rather as part of a complex network of social and pedagogical interactions. It examines the integration of computers into the writing practices of a remedial English class in an urban high school. Computers and word processors were introduced midway into the school year. The class was observed and recorded daily throughout the academic year, and all written work was collected. Six students were selected for in-depth focus as they carried out writing tasks. Analysis focuses on how classroom writing practices were structured and carried out and how students participated in writing tasks before and after the computers arrived. Although many changes accompanied the use of computers, the study concludes that the teacher's structuring of writing instruction had the greatest impact on both student writing and the ways computers entered into that writing.

Journal: Written Communication
Published: 1994-01-01
DOI: 10.1177/0741088394011001005
Open Access: Closed
Topics: writing pedagogy

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (1)

Susser (1998)

The mysterious disappearance of word processing

Computers and Composition

Cites in this index (6)

Owston et al. (1992)

The Effects of Word Processing on Students' Writing Quality and Revision Strategies

Research in the Teaching of English
Purves (1992)

Reflections on Research and Assessment in Written Composition

Research in the Teaching of English
Lutz (1987)

A Study of Professional and Experienced Writers Revising and Editing at the Com…

Research in the Teaching of English
Dickinson (1986)

Cooperation, Collaboration, and a Computer: Integrating a Computer into a First…

Research in the Teaching of English
Daiute (1986)

Physical and Cognitive Factors in Revising: Insights from Studies with Computers

Research in the Teaching of English

Show all 6 →

Collier (1983)

The Word Processor and Revision Strategies

College Composition and Communication

Also cites 11 works outside this index ↓

10.3102/00346543061001107

↗
10.2307/357400

↗
10.1080/00405848309543077

↗
10.2307/357976

↗
10.1080/00405848309543076

↗
10.2307/816973

↗
10.1525/aeq.1989.20.1.05x1208l

↗
Nichols, R. (1986)

10.37514/JBW-J.1986.5.2.09

Journal of Basic Writing ↗
Scribner, S.

The psychology of literacy

↗
10.3102/00346543061004475

↗
Vygotsky, L. S.

Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes

↗

CrossRef global citation count: 11 View in citation network →