Inputlog: New Perspectives on the Logging of On-Line Writing Processes in a Windows Environment
Mariëlle Leijten, Luuk Van Waes · 2006
The use of computers as writing instruments has not only had a profound effect on the writing practice and the attitudes towards writing, it has also created new possibilities for writing research. In the field of cognitive writing research especially, keystroke-logging programs have become very popular. In this paper we describe a new logging program, called Inputlog. The program consists of three modules: (1) a data collection module that registers on-line writing processes on a very detailed level; (2) a data analysis module that offers basic and more advanced statistical analyses (e.g., text and pause analysis); and (3) a play module that enables researchers to review the writing session. In this chapter we describe the technical and functional characteristics of Inputlog and we wind up the paper with a preview of the plans for further developments.