The Use of Computers for Writing: Effects on an English Composition Class

Abstract

Students in English composition classes were assigned to either using computers or using paper and pen to write their course assignments. Analysis of their final essays revealed that those subjects assigned to use computers wrote better essays than those assigned to work on paper. Essays written on computer were judged of higher quality, were longer, and contained fewer errors. Attitudes toward computers, writing and the course were also measured, and revealed that those who used computers throughout the course had more positive attitudes toward computers than those who did not. Attitudes toward writing and the course did not differ. These findings suggest that using a computer for writing can improve the quality of the work produced, and can also foster more positive views of computers.