Digital tools to support self-regulation in the writing process for exceptional learners

Abstract

High levels of self-regulation and attentional management are essential to skilled writing. Many students with disabilities struggle with the demands of expressing their ideas through writing. The act of high-quality composition requires close attention and management of the entire writing process: planning, composing, and revising. Many students with disabilities struggle to employ the needed self-regulation strategies that are required throughout the writing process. As a result, they generally possess poorer self-regulated writing strategies compared to skilled writers. This article will describe how digital tools can support various aspects of self-regulation within the writing process. When paired with explicit instruction, teachers can use the digital tools provided in this article to deliver effective, self-regulated writing instruction.