Typically, writers use one standard word processor (Pages, Microsoft Word, or Open Office--depending on their brand allegiance) to write their essays, poems, and first drafts. However, educational technology tools have come farther than you might imagine. Many of us might have heard of Google Docs, the web-based (sharable) counterpart to other software, but there's quite a few out there. This week, we'll be covering five little-known options available for writing applications to help you choose what's best for you!
XpadXpad combines elements of OSX's Pages,TextEdit, and Stickies into one convenient and easy to use platform. Provides file storage similar to GoogleDrive.
OS: Fully web-based
Price: Free
Dragon Dictation
A cross between Siri (or Cortana) and transcription software. Lets you dictate words and then enter them into any application (including social media sites and web browsers)
OS: Windows 7, 8, 8.1; OS X 10.9, 10.10; iOS 4.0 or later
Price: $59.99 (Windows), $150.00 (Mac), Free (iOS)
ZenWriter
As the name implies, this text editor creates a relaxing space with options for custom backgrounds and music. However, the creator has noted that the site may have bugs that cause you to lose work if you copy-paste from another program.
OS: Windows (Free trial); OS X (not available)
Price: $19.95
Q10
Q10 provides a wide array of affordances compared to other word processors/editors. Features are similar to Google Docs (autosave, autocorrect) but this program also offers custom appearance design, a writing timer, and analytics on your writing process.
OS: Windows; OS X (not available)
Price: Free
Clean Writer Pro
Very similar to Notepad, Wordpad, and other relatively stark text editors. However, Clean Writer Pro offers HTML embed features for moving your text to the web.
OS: OS X 10.7 or later; Windows (not available)
Price: $4.99
Word processors don't fit quite neatly into the TPACK success model, since they've nearly become as essential a tool in educational institutions as the traditional pen and paper. However, this does not lessen their critical place within both traditional and contemporary classrooms. In fact, many affordances of these newer programs stand to improve the overall experience of writing process.
In terms of overall personal preference, I rather enjoy Q10 for its high level of complexity and unique affordances. I'm also a fan of Dragon Dictation since I tend to think-out-loud. When it comes to what's best for students, I can't really make any claims as to what will work best for each school, or even, for each class. Writing is a highly individualized process that involves tailoring your workspace to your personality, work ethic, and style. However, because of those same complexities, it's critical to offer students a wide range of programs with different affordances--rather than simply allowing them to settle for traditional software that simply "get the job done".
In terms of overall personal preference, I rather enjoy Q10 for its high level of complexity and unique affordances. I'm also a fan of Dragon Dictation since I tend to think-out-loud. When it comes to what's best for students, I can't really make any claims as to what will work best for each school, or even, for each class. Writing is a highly individualized process that involves tailoring your workspace to your personality, work ethic, and style. However, because of those same complexities, it's critical to offer students a wide range of programs with different affordances--rather than simply allowing them to settle for traditional software that simply "get the job done".
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