Journal Article

Pen-and-Paper versus Computer-Mediated Writing Modality as a New Dimension of Task Complexity

Vasylets, Olena, Marín, Javier

2022

Overview

In this paper we make a proposal that writing modality (pen-and-paper versus computer-based writing can be conceptualized as a cognitive task complexity factor. To lay ground for this theoretical proposal, we first review previous adaptations of cognitive task-based models to second language (L2) writing. We then compare pen-and-paper and computer-based writing modalities in terms of their general characteristics, outline the main tenets of multidisciplinary theoretical models which attribute learning and performance-related importance to writing modality, and review the available empirical evidence. From this we draw theoretical and empirical justification for our conceptualization of writing modality as a task complexity dimension. After outlining our conceptual view, we proceed with the review of the methods which could be used to independently assess cognitive load in paper and computer-written L2 tasks. In the conclusion, implications and suggestions for future research are provided.

• Publisher: MDPI AG
• Subject: Cognition / Cognition & reasoning / Cognitive load / Cognitive tasks / Complexity / Computer assisted language learning / computer-mediated writing / Computers / Concept formation / Evaluation / Hypotheses / Interdisciplinary aspects / Justification / Keyboards / Language / Memory / pen-and-paper writing / Second language learning / Second language writing / Task complexity / task-based language teaching / Taxonomy / Writing