We used TACT computer software to teach Joseph Conrad's novel Heart of Darkness to BA (Hons) students at the University of Luton in England. Conrad's novel is one of the texts used in the 'Language and New Literatures' modules (units). In these modules we combine analytical approaches to literary texts with linguistic methods. We used TACT to reinforce the understanding of the text of Heart of Darkness achieved through such a combination of methods. An exposure to the computer-based approaches to the text described in this article made the students' interaction with the text a more complex and rewarding experience. This year Conrad's short novel, Heart of Darkness, was chosen as one of the set texts for the Language and New Literatures modules [units within our BA (Honours) course] at the University of Luton. As part of the module, first year students make use of TACT computer software (Bradley, J. & L. Presutti 1993) to explore linguistic features found in the novel. Advances in information technology create a need for the formulation of new teaching methods. This paper is based on our experience of teaching first, second and third year undergraduates following Language and New Literatures modules at the University of Luton.