Standard Presentation (25-minute) Exploring Reflective Use of AI Assistance for Improving Writing Skills more

Sat, Sep 16, 16:35-17:00 Asia/Tokyo

This reflective teaching presentation describes a preliminary exploration of integrating generative AI (ChatGPT) into an L2 English academic writing course at a Japanese national university. Seventeen students drafted 5-paragraph essays, received feedback and revisions from ChatGPT, then analyzed the differences between their original and the AI-corrected writing. This presentation describes the process used to enhance student comprehension of structural elements, grammar, vocabulary, argument development, and clarity, responding to calls to ethically empower students to engage with generative AI technology (Mhlanga, 2023; Zhai, 2022). The presentation draws on examples of students’ initial writing, the ChatGPT feedback and recommended revisions, as well as student questionnaires exploring their impressions of the intervention and teacher reflections on it. Additionally, comparisons of students’ writing before and after revisions will be shared, along with preliminary discussion of students’ and the teacher’s impressions of the application of ChatGPT and the activities used. Overall, students appreciated ChatGPT's ability to refine their essays and improve their writing while emphasizing that active student teacher collaboration remains important. Attendees will leave with practical insights and ideas to enhance their teaching practices, foster student growth, and embrace the potential of AI as a tool for academic success while remaining mindful of potential pitfalls.