The writing performance of elementary students using a digital writing application: Results of a teacher–librarian collaboration
Interactive Technology and Smart Education
ISSN: 1741-5659
Article publication date: 30 May 2019
Issue publication date: 23 September 2019
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate elementary students’ writing experiences using a digital writing application and compares the results to the findings and recommendations of a national survey on instructional practices in writing.
Design/methodology/approach
Mixed methods were used to assess the quantity and quality of P-5 public school students’ writing over time. Teacher, librarian and student perceptions and experiences were examined and compared to the results and recommendations from a national survey on writing.
Findings
This paper provides empirical insights into the use of a digital writing application in writing instruction. Findings showed the use of a digital writing application: significantly increased the quantity and improved the quality of student writing; excited and motivated students to write; extended the learning day so more time was spent on writing; and supported students of special populations. Comparison to the recommendations of the national survey showed five of seven recommendations were not met in this study.
Research limitations/implications
Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to conduct further investigations.
Practical implications
The paper includes implications for writing instruction using digital applications for teachers, librarians and educators in pre-service teacher and school librarian preparation programs.
Originality/value
Considering limited growth in national writing scores and the transition to online writing assessments by 2019, this paper addresses the need to integrate technology into writing instruction and offers practical strategies for doing so.
Keywords
Citation
Baker, S.F. and Lastrapes, R.E. (2019), "The writing performance of elementary students using a digital writing application: Results of a teacher–librarian collaboration", Interactive Technology and Smart Education, Vol. 16 No. 4, pp. 343-362. https://doi.org/10.1108/ITSE-08-2018-0057
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited