Developing EFL Writing with AI: Balancing Benefits and Challenges

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor of Al-Mustaqbal University, Iraq

2 Al-Mustaqbal University, College of Arts and Humanities, 51001, Babylon, Iraq,

3 Assist. Prof in Applied Linguistics Al Mustaqbal University

Abstract

This study explores the impact of AI-powered writing assistance on the writing quality and creativity of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students. The study reveals that AI platforms like ChatGPT enhance grammatical accuracy, structural coherence, and student engagement, improving overall writing quality. Integrating AI into EFL writing tasks significantly reduces grammatical and lexical errors, promoting more cohesive and coherent texts. Students report increased motivation and engagement due to the immediate feedback provided by ChatGPT. However, the study also highlights content density and authenticity challenges, as AI sometimes includes unrelated ideas and may dilute the students’ intended messages. Despite concerns over AI’s ability to preserve students’ authentic voices and the potential risk of over-reliance, students’ positive attitudes and the pedagogical implications of AI integration indicate that AI holds promise for enhancing EFL education. The study underscores the need for educators to address issues such as inaccuracies, biases, and the balance between AI assistance and students’ authentic expression. This guidance is crucial to fully leverage the benefits of AI in writing instruction. Ultimately, while AI significantly improves the technical quality of writing, its impact on creativity and authenticity requires careful management to ensure enriched learning experiences.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Technology Assisted Language Education
Volume 2, Issue 2
June 2024
Pages 80-93

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