A Development Methodology for Composer Computer Support Tool for Academic Writing in a Second Language

This paper discusses issues in design methodologies for user centered writing environments, specifically the lessons we have learned in the early stages of developing Composer , a Cooperative Software system aimed at helping non-native speakers to write scientific texts in English. We believe that the development of an environment such as Composer depends crucially on paying attention to the dynamics of interaction within the development team. Central to the success of this interaction is a shared, evolving understanding of the team’s objectives and the decisions made to meet them. Of the various representations used to foster this understanding, computer-based prototypes, however raw and unfinished, proved critical in enabling the whole team to engage with the dynamic and interactive nature of the system. This throws an interesting light on the current enthusiasm for paper prototyping.