ISSN-1791-1133 1 Fostering EFL learners’ writing skills using word processing within a computer-assisted process-writing framework Maria Tzotzou 1 , Michael Tourabelis 2 1 Primary Education of Aitoloakarnania Prefecture, Greece, E-mail: mtzotzou@yahoo.gr 2 Secondary Education of Irakleio Prefecture, Greece, E-mail: michaeltourabelis@yahoo.gr Abstract Word processing is a computer application that allows text to be entered and stored in a computer file as well as to be changed and formatted in a variety of ways, thus, facilitating the writing process. The purpose of this paper is to discuss why WP can be exploited as a beneficial writing tool for creating and manipulating texts for EFL purposesέ It also focuses on how Wθ can enhance υφδ learners‟ motivation, open the way for collaborative writing activities and offer a supportive learning environment through group work by stimulating conversation among learners and affecting positively their attitude towards both the process and product of writing. Key-words: word-processing, collaboration, motivation, process-writing, flexibility 1. Introduction By the early 1990s, educational technology has become a well established part of the international field of English Language Teaching (ELT). Taylor et al. (1996-97) state that technology is not only a helpful but also a transformative tool in the language classroom as it can offer a great flexibility and variety in terms of scheduling classes, pacing of individual learners, selection of activities and selection of content. Technology can enhance English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning when teachers focus on the learning objectives and then choose the type of technology and the tasks that best suit the objectives (Chun & Brandl, 1992). The most common computer-based technologies currently in use are the word processor, CDs, authoring software and the internet (web, e-mail, discussion lists, blogs, etc). In particular, the fact that the development of the writing skill remains one of the most difficult areas which the majority of EFL learners seem to regard as the least enjoyable of the four skills as well as the way that it has been neglected or treated poorly up till now in the school courseware necessitate a more systematic development of learners‟ writing skills through technologyέ To „fill this gap‟, word processing (WP) can be integrated into the EFL classroom in order to increase learners‟ motivation while conducting the whole writing process - planning, drafting, composing, editing and proof-reading- not merely as a typewriter for copying out a final neat version.