[Paper Review] Emergent AI-Assisted Discourse: Case Study of a Second Language Writer Authoring with ChatGPT

Sharin Jacob, Tamara Tate+1 more|arXiv (Cornell University)|Oct 17, 2023

Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Education8 citations

TL;DR

This case study investigates how a second-language writer uses ChatGPT throughout the academic writing process, using activity theory to assess collaboration and voice.

ABSTRACT

The rapid proliferation of ChatGPT has incited debates regarding its impact on human writing. Amid concerns about declining writing standards, this study investigates the role of ChatGPT in facilitating academic writing, especially among language learners. Using a case study approach, this study examines the experiences of Kailing, a doctoral student, who integrates ChatGPT throughout their academic writing process. The study employs activity theory as a lens for understanding writing with generative AI tools and data analyzed includes semi-structured interviews, writing samples, and GPT logs. Results indicate that Kailing effectively collaborates with ChatGPT across various writing stages while preserving her distinct authorial voice and agency. This underscores the potential of AI tools such as ChatGPT to enhance academic writing for language learners without overshadowing individual authenticity. This case study offers a critical exploration of how ChatGPT is utilized in the academic writing process and the preservation of a student's authentic voice when engaging with the tool.

Motivation & Objective

• Investigate the role of ChatGPT in facilitating academic writing for language learners.

Proposed method

• Case study approach with semi-structured interviews, writing samples, and GPT logs.

Experimental results

Research questions

• RQ1 How does ChatGPT participate in the academic writing process for a language learner?
• RQ2 How is the writer's authorial voice and agency preserved when using AI tools like ChatGPT?
• RQ3 What writing stages see AI involvement and how does collaboration unfold across them?

Key findings

• The writer collaborates with ChatGPT across various writing stages.