Word Processors, Writing Tools, Collaborative Word Processors, Collaborative Writing Tools, Text Editors
What are they?
Word processors are now so ubiquitous that they need no introduction. Text editors, such as the Windows Notepad, are very simple programs for writing documents that do not need (or must not contain) any formatting: for example, if you’re writing “raw” HTML code to create a Web page, or if you’re writing a lengthy wiki page and don’t want to risk losing it if you temporarily lose your Internet connection.
Tools that support collaborative writing are a more recent development. They are Web-based word processors that allow two or more authors to create and edit the same document, avoiding the need to keep circulating the latest version by email. The Educause Learning Initiative’s (ELI’s) 7 Things You Should Know About... series contains a useful guide to collaborative editing (PDF).
How can I use them with my students?
The most common use of word processing is for students to present a polished piece of work in which they articulate their knowledge and understanding. However, the features of word processors also can also be used in the following learning activities:
- Formulating ideas; analysing and categorising information: text highlighting, tables
- Peer review: annotation/comment features (students will need to share the electronic files of their work)
- Tutor-marked assessment: annotation/comment features (this will require students to submit the electronic files of their work)
- Group projects: online collaborative writing tools
Requiring students to submit their work electronically also means that you can process it through plagiarism detection tools such as TurnitinUK.
Examples
We are still researching examples and case studies for this topic. If you would like to contribute any (whether from your own teaching or from other sources), please contact us.
Where can I get them?
Most colleges and universities have site licences for Microsoft Office, which includes Word. However, free open-source alternatives are now available, including Writer (part of the Open Office suite) and the online collaborative writing tools Zoho Writer, Writeboard and Google Docs & Spreadsheets.
Wikis are another powerful tool for collaborative writing if the product will be an online document and you don’t need elaborate formatting. However, they are less convenient for producing sophisticated-looking printed documents, as you will have to export all the pages to a word processor and reformat the text.
You can find a list of free writing tools on the Website of the Centre for Learning & Performance Technologies.
For a guide to accessible collaborative writing tools that are appropriate for students with specific needs, see the Web2el Website.
