This paper argues for the inclusion of computer-based writing assignments in literature and writing courses, citing as objectives for students the fostering of collaboration; the cultivation of scholarly ideals; and the exploration of issues, ideas, and literature from varying perspectives. It explains how the instructor developed assignments through reading "Computers in Composition" and other journals, through attendance at computer-assisted instruction workshops at regional and national conferences, by following discussions on MBU (Megabyte University) and other electronic lists, and through trial and error. The paper presents various sample writing assignments (using WordPerfect) for different classes in American Literature, such as a poetry explication assignment, a romantic fiction group project, and a paired letter exchange. Samples of student writing for the assignments are included with the paper, as are selected group e-mail compositions. (TB)