DECODING
Idea Generator
Overview:
Idea generators are tools that help students come up with new ideas when they're stuck. By entering key words or a topic, the software suggests related terms and concepts to explore.
This is a type of software where users input key words or headings. The software then searches for similar terms, providing a list of related ideas. It can be used on its own or alongside other tools like story builders or templates.
This tool can help students overcome writer's block or idea generation issues. It provides new concepts and directions for their work, making it easier to start writing or brainstorming.
To see Idea Generators in action, check out this video: https://youtu.be/MCPJGEmhkp4?si=IDlXT21Vex1OCKjJ&t=179
Research
Wall, 2018
The study involved 32 grade four to seven students with writing challenges referred by their parents or teachers which evaluated the effectiveness of idea generation software and strategies on improving written expression.
Participants using idea generators technology combined with other strategy interventions separately showed the most significant improvement in writing.
Crossley, Muldner, & McNamara, 2016
The study examined college student essays to link idea generation (fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration) with assessments of writing quality and linguistic features.
Idea generators can help students produce writing samples with higher idea flexibility, originality, and elaboration.
Research Quick Facts
Advantages
Effective for students with learning disabilities who struggle with idea generation
Promotes independence and increases the amount of written work produced
Easy to use and doesn't require extensive training
Disadvantages
May be difficult to integrate with other assistive technology programs
Might not be suitable for every student's needs
To Consider
Trial the software with students before making a full commitment to ensure it meets their needs without losing the creativity of the student’s own ideas.
Technology is preferable for students struggling during the prewriting phase, especially after a short fifteen-minute training period and some practice to become comfortable with it.
Insights from Practice
To overcome the very common "I don't know what to write", idea generation can help students get started without outside assistance. May be helpful to adjust the amount of suggestions outputted if students are unable to pick from the long list of generated ideas.

Product | Price | OS Compatibility | Internet Reliance |
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Exact prices change frequently, which is why only approximate ranges are listed.
$ - Under $5
$$ - Between $6 and $50
$$$ - Between $51 and $250
$$$$ - Over $250
References
Crossley, S. A., Muldner, K., & McNamara, D. S. (2016). Idea generation in student writing: Computational assessments and links to successful writing. Written Communication, 33, 328-354.
Wall, F. B. (2020). Using Assistive Technology to Facilitate Idea Generation in Writing for School Aged Children. ProQuest Dissertations & Theses.