Term
2008
Capstone
Restricted Access Thesis
Degree Name
MAESL
Abstract
Writing is often the last aspect of acquiring English that English Language Learners (ELLs) learn to do well, especially in an academic setting. The purpose of this study was to find out if writing on a mobile, personal computer, the AlphaSmart, versus paper and pencil would increase the quantity and quality of the writing of eight- fifth grade ELLs. The students wrote journal entries for six weeks, switching from paper and pencil to AlphaSmart week after week. The journals were collected after the six weeks and assessed for both their quantity and quality. There was also a pre-post survey, where students expressed their opinions on the two methods. The number of words written increased by almost all students and the quality of writing indicated mixed results. As a whole, the class improved in writing quality. The surveys were telling of the student's thoughts, as they tell what they like/disliked about each method.
Recommended Citation
Davis, Patricia Gail Matthias, "Using AlphaSmarts to improve the quantity and quality of writing of fifth grade English language learners" (2008). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 365.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/365