Word Processing

In class:

Administrative:

• Remember to submit a Google account using the online form found at the bottom of the Google Services lecture page.

Instructional:

This lecture serves as an introductory session to word-processing concepts and software. There is no electronic presentation, rather this is an interactive lecture that includes computer time to demonstrate and practice certain concepts. It is important to note that word-processing software does not differ significantly whether boxed or online. They all have the same general features. This lecture focuses on concepts rather than specific software so that the student can move between various packages and versions. During this lecture we discuss:

• Usage of word-processing software
  • A part of an office suite of software
  • Brainstorm usage word-processing software and discuss alternative solutions
• Font terminology
  • History of print
  • Serif versus Sans Serif and usage
  • Kerning versus leading
  • Point sizes
  • Emphasis types and guidelines (pick one, not four)
• Tools common to all word-processors
  • Margins
  • Font and size selection
  • Tool-bars and ribbons
  • Rulers, margins and tabs
  • View modes
  • Format painter
  • Comments and asynchronous collaboration
  • Format painter
  • Spell check
• Synchronous collaborative tools demonstration though a Google Docs hands-on in class exercise.
  • Document sharing
  • Synchronous collaboration
  • Chat window
  • Revision history
  • Uses for collaborative tools
• Free word-processing resources
  • Abi Word
  • Open Office
  • LibreOffice
  • NeoOffice (Mac Only)

Online:

• The online component of this lecture is designed to provide you with time to exercise your newly developed word-processing skills by creating a word-processing document using several of the tools discussed. You can view the assignment by clicking here (Google ID and instructor permission required) or visiting your Google Docs page. If you are unable to access this document, be sure you have completed the Google ID collection form at the bottom of the Google Services lecture page and notify your instructor that you have done so. If you are still having problems, contact your instructor immediately.
• Review the Word Processing Software Learning Resources below. These are useful if you are stuck on a concept.
  • Microsoft Word: Microsoft Word Training Courses
  • Google Docs: Google Docs Help Pages
  • Open Office: Tutorials for Open Office
• You can also find numerous resources using Google Search.