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Computer Education for Teachers: Integrating Technology into Classroom Teaching, 4/e
Vicki Sharp, University of California - Northridge
Word Processing

Chapter Outline

HISTORY OF THE COMPUTER

I. Historical Background

  1. Machines designed solely for word processing and word processing software for microcomputers replaced sophisticated electric typewriters in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
  2. From 1981-1985, after the advent of the IBM PC, several word processing programs came into use:
    MacWrite, Microsoft Word, Bank Street Writer, PFS Write, and Appleworks.
  3. Because of graphical user interface (GUI) systems, programs could display different fonts and font size choices and handle simple desktop publishing features.
  4. Currently, integrated word processing software packages are sold, which include a word processor, spreadsheet, database, graphic tools, and communication software.

II. What is a word processor?

  1. A word processor is a software program designed to make the computer a useful electronic writing tool that can edit, store, and print documents. Today, when writers discuss word processing, they are usually talking about personal computers with word processing software.
  2. Word processing software allows users to make changes quickly, save a document on disk, make multiple copies, and put the disks away for safekeeping.

III. Components of Word Processing

  1. A word processor usually involves the interaction of these components: computer, keyboard, monitor, software, document disk, and printer. Through the word processing software, the user enters the text using the keyboard, views it on the monitor, changes it as necessary, saves the document on disk, and prints it on the printer.
  2. Teachers can use word processing software to create lesson plans, worksheets, memos, lab and book report forms, assignment sheets, course syllabi, and other instructional materials. Students can use the software to create a variety of projects, outlines, reports, and newspapers. A five-step process should be exercised in choosing the right word processing software for classroom integration.

IV. Using Word Processing Programs in the Classroom

  1. Word processing programs need not be dull and tedious. Students can be engaged through a variety of games and activities.
  2. Seven word processing activities featured cover a range of curriculum areas. See pp. 75-82 for lesson plans and teaching ideas.









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