Tag Archives: education

HP is a dear friend of mine who prefers anonymity. What he has to say about teaching writing is important for those teachers, administrators, and parents who fret about AI’s effects on students’ writing. HP sees more of an upside than a downside for both teachers and students using AI to write essays, reports, and research papers.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into classroom instruction has sparked considerable myopia.

Among the most contentious issues is use of AI in teaching writing. Many educators have responded to this technological advance with outright bans, fearing that AI tools like ChatGPT will undermine students’ learning and academic integrity. However, this short-sightedness overlooks the myriad ways AI can enhance the writing process and improve educational outcomes. By forbidding or reducing use of AI, teachers miss a valuable opportunity to enrich their students’ writing and better prepare them for the future.

The primary argument against the use of AI in writing instruction is the concern that it will do the cognitive work for students, thereby stunting their intellectual growth. Critics argue that if students rely on AI to generate ideas, structure essays, or correct grammar, they will not develop the critical thinking and writing skills necessary for academic and professional success. This viewpoint is overly simplistic and fails to recognize the potential of AI as a powerful educational tool.

AI should not be seen as a replacement for human thought, but as a supplement that can enhance the learning process. For instance, AI can provide immediate feedback on writing, helping students identify and correct errors in real-time. This instant feedback loop can accelerate learning, allowing students to understand their mistakes and improve more quickly than they might through traditional methods. Moreover, AI can assist in brainstorming and outlining, helping students organize their thoughts and develop coherent arguments. These are skills that students will still need to master, but with AI, they can do so more efficiently and effectively.

Further, AI can democratize access to high-quality writing instruction. Not all students have the same level of support at home or access to resources like private tutoring. AI tools can level the playing field by providing personalized assistance to every student, regardless of their background. For students who struggle with academic English, AI can offer tailored feedback on word choice and grammar, students improve their writing skills in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. This kind of individualized attention is often impossible in a crowded classroom, but AI makes it feasible.

There is also a broader pedagogical argument to be made. Education should not be about memorizing facts or following rigid procedures but about fostering a love of learning and encouraging intellectual curiosity. AI can play a significant role in this by making the writing process more engaging and interactive. For example, AI can help students explore different writing styles, experiment with new vocabulary, and receive instant feedback on their creative endeavors. This can make writing feel less like a chore and more like an exciting opportunity for self-expression and discovery.

The fear of academic dishonesty is another reason many educators resist the use of AI. They worry that students will use AI to generate entire essays and pass them off as their own work. This is not an insurmountable obstacle. Instead of banning AI, educators should focus on teaching students how to use these tools ethically. This includes understanding the importance of originality, learning how to properly cite AI-generated content, and recognizing the value of their own intellectual contributions. By incorporating lessons on digital literacy and ethical AI use into the curriculum, teachers can help students navigate the complexities of modern technology while maintaining academic integrity.

Moreover, the outright ban on AI overlooks the fact that these tools are becoming increasingly integrated into professional environments. In many industries, AI is used to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and generate content. By familiarizing students with these tools, educators can better prepare them for the realities of the modern workplace. Teaching students how to use AI responsibly and effectively will give them a competitive edge and equip them with skills that are highly valued in today’s job market.

Finally, decisions forbidding use of AI in the teaching of writing are shortsighted. While concerns about academic integrity and the potential for misuse are valid, they should not overshadow the significant benefits that AI can bring to the educational experience. By embracing AI, educators can provide more personalized, efficient, and engaging writing instruction. They can help students develop critical thinking and writing skills more effectively and prepare them for the demands of the modern world.

Rather than banning AI, secondary teachers should explore how these tools can be integrated into their teaching practices to enhance learning and foster a more dynamic and inclusive educational environment. The future of education lies not in resisting technological advancements but in harnessing their potential to create richer, more meaningful learning experiences for all students.