BALTIMORE CITY SCHOOLS USE MICROCOMPUTERS TO TEACH WRITING

Abstract

Many school systems in the U.S. are attempting to use limited resources effectively.  In a large urban school system, the problem is compounded by a large number of students and a steadily declining budget. Despite this reality, school systems are continuing to find creative ways to use computers and other technological advances to raise the achievement level of their students.  Several innovative programs in the Baltimore City Public Schools are described in this article. A joint project with a local college, a federally funded project for disadvantaged pupils, a partnership with a national organization, and a joint venture with the Maryland State Department of Education, all involving the use of computers, are described.  These projects suggest that there is a distinct advantage in using computers to teach students to write better. In the case of the severe problem writer, word processing may be the preferable way to help them in a school setting.