Section 1 Resource Binder
Section 1 Resource Binder
Section 1 Resource Binder
on students with dysgraphia during writing assignments in the classroom. They recruited three
grade seven students who identified as having dysgraphia, reading at grade level, had an average
IQ score and basic knowledge of how to use a computer. The researchers concluded that students
with learning disabilities in writing should be given access to a writing processing tool for all
The researchers used two phases to assess the impact of writing processing tools on the
writing output. One phase consisted of paper-pen and the other phase consisted of the students
using laptops with a word processing tool in their classroom. The researchers trained the students
on how to use the word processer and then observed the students writing with and without the
They collected data on: the amount of spelling errors; the amount of reading errors when
the students read their work back; the number of words per text; and the organization and
structure. The researchers discovered that all students showed significant success with fewer
spelling errors, fewer reading errors, and better organization; yet, there was not a significant
change in the number of words they produced. They believe that the lack of change in number of
words could be because the tasks the students were performing were very specific on what to
write.
From the findings, the researchers recommend that students with learning disabilities in
writing, such as dysgraphia should be allowed to use a computer with a word processing program
in the classroom and also at home to complete written assignments. Computers should be seen as
a writing tool that is readily assessable. They also state that word processing technology can
increase students’ confidence in writing and “students with LD to take control over their
assignments while using their strengths instead of their deficits” (Hetzroni and Shrieber , 2004,
p.153).
The article makes clear that resource teachers should be applying for assistive technology
and instructing teachers and students on how to use it. Resource teachers can use writing
processing tools to help students with dysgraphia become more confident and independent in
writing. There are a few things to note from this article to ensure resource teachers use
computers affectively.
Resource teachers need to first educate classroom teachers and parents in the importance
of allowing their students to use the computers for all written assignment in the classroom and at
home. By informing teachers and parents of the benefits of the technology, they will be more
Secondly, the resource teacher needs to ensure the student is trained to use the
technology. The resource teacher, EA or classroom teacher should work with the student until he
or she can use the computer correctly. It is important that the student know how to use the
technology appropriately so it does not become another stressor. Time should be given to the
student to adjust to this change. This should also be done in the classroom as much as possible.
Having someone available to sit with the student to help them learn how to use the computer
I had a student in grade 2 with dysgraphia which resulted in avoidance behaviours during
writing. We decided to introduce the Forte, a word processing tool. The resource teacher first
met with me and the parents to describe what a Forte is and its benefits. Then the resource
teacher trained me and the EA on how to use the Forte. Finally, the resource worked with the
student, and with guidance from me and the EA the student was using the Forte in the classroom.
It eliminated the avoidance behaviours during writing and we were able to see what a great story-
The article and my personal experience with writing tools for students with dysgraphia,
shows that resource teachers should take initiative to educate parents and other teachers on the
benefits of writing processing tools in the classroom. Ultimately, giving students the tools they
need empowers them to work to the best of their ability, to become more independent and
confident.