EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGIES

Word Processing
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Overview
Word processing software is probably one of the most familiar type of software to most people.  It's basic function is to allow someone to create a printed document that contains text, tables, and perhaps other elements such as images or graphs.  Word processing is the term for using the computer and appropriate software to produce documents. Although it is often described as using a computer as a typewriter, a word processing program functions much more effectively and easier than a typewriter. For example, one can vary the style of the font and the size of the letters, add running headers and footers and import drawings or scanned photos as well as graphs and tables. Word processing software makes editing, moving, deleting and copying text a simple matter. One of the nicest features of a word processor is "word wrap" which automatically moves text to the next line without the author having to be concerned with hyphenating and having to hit return at the end of each line.

Another obvious advantage of the word processor is data storage. Regardless of the size of the document, it can be stored, retrieved, revised, formatted and printed. Word processing is the most common application of microcomputers in schools, in industry and in the private sector. Teachers can use word processing to create lesson plans, write reports, letters, grant applications, announcements, memos and countless other forms of communication.

Most students are experienced in using the word processing function of microcomputers. The major word processing programs such as Microsoft Word, Word Perfect and ClarisWorks are similar for the Mac and the PC. It is advised that you become familiar with both platforms.

Word processing, a key example of productivity software, is becoming an indispensable component of our everyday lives as it enables us to easily prepare, save, and modify professional documents. Many different programs are available, including Microsoft Word, Corel Wordperfect, and ClarisWorks. The programs are all identical in general operation--the main differences are in toolbar layout and keystroke commands for tasks such as tab settings, creating borders, spell checking, etc. This module will focus on the programs Microsoft Word and ClarisWorks for PC's and Macs; once you understand how to use these programs, using other word processing programs is fairly straightforward.

As educators we need to consider word processing as a tool for both teachers and students. Teachers can use word processing to generate, update, and revise many products. Such products include notes, information handouts, activities, problem sets, quizzes, tests, and the like. Students can use word processing to complete special assignments, reports, summaries, and so forth. An important feature of word processing is the ease a which the writer can develop a professional document, complete with format (margins, tabs etc.), and style (font, bold, italics, etc.) enhancements, as well as attention to grammer and spelling. Certainly, as the teacher expects such documents from their students, the teachers themselves should be modeling development of professional documents which they provide to their students and colleagues.

Word processing can certainly be a cost-effective tool for both teachers and students. However, one must consider the time it takes to learn keyboarding skills as well as how to use a word processing program. Many districts now incorporate both keyboarding skill development AND educational technology beginning as early as the 2nd grade, which removes the requirement for, say, the 8th grade science teacher to focus specifically on keyboarding skills. One concern about word processing centers around "face validity"--that is, the influence of a documents appearance (printed text) overriding its actual content. A sidebar issue pertains to the relationship between student achievement and word processing. So far, the research is out on whether or not it increases quality of writing and overall process skills, and not just increasing volume.

As this instructional module is for teachers, once you learn features enabling you to do word processing, your assignment will be related to one of the most common activities (especially for new teachers): developing lesson plans. While many "formats" and "strategies" of lesson plan development exist relevant to specific instructional methods and strategies, most lesson plan formats have similar features: Unit Goal(s) and Objective(s), materials needed, timeframe, procedures, related activities (homework, etc.), and evaluation/assessment (both of student and of the lesson itself). Your assignment will be to develop a lesson--so consider aspects of lesson plan development as you learn new skills and processes related to word processing. Part of the assigment will also require you to communicate with each other to share ideas--collaboration and sharing are certainly important aspects of being an effective educator.

Tutorials

• Microsoft Word
  http://www.fgcu.edu/support/office2000/word/
• Mail Merge
  http://www.functionx.com/mailmerge/index.htm