AI in Writing
There are currently a wide range of positions on the suitable role(s) of generative AI in academic and professional writing. Some warn against loss of human agency, voice, and creativity, while others point to democratizing potential and the need to embrace the tools of the modern workplace. Below, we include a representative set of contemporary views.
- MLA-CCCC Working Papers - Initial PaperThe MLA-CCCC Joint Task Force on Writing and AI published their “Working Paper: Overview of the Issues, Statement of Principles, and Recommendations” (July 2023). In addition to the initial paper and writing community responses, the TF’s 2023 “Year in Review” and its most recent working paper (October, 2024) are available.
- Student Perspectives on AI Writing Tools - Research Study (Wang, 2024)
Chaoran Wang, Multilingual Writing Specialist and Asst. Professor of Writing at Colby College, has published an open access article on “Exploring Students’ Generative AI-Assisted Writing Processes.” This article examines student perceptions and uses of AI technology around several local and global stages of the writing process. It considers the perspectives of both L1 and L2 English writers, as well as issues of language accuracy, voice, and student learning experience.
- Advocating AI as Writing Process Tool - AI “Sandwich” Approach
John Ippolito, Professor of New Media at the University of Maine, proposes an AI-infused approach to academic research papers. This model incorporates AI tools into the writing process, wrapping AI brainstorming and drafting partners around authentic “human-to-human knowledge creation.”
- Caution Against AI in Drafting Process - “The Myth of the AI First Draft” (2024)
Leon Furze argues against outsourcing the initial drafting stage to AI. Emphasizing the importance of the human writer in initial idea creation, the piece offers a counterpoint to those who advocate for more integration of AI tools in the drafting process. - ACL 2023 Policy on AI Writing Assistance Examples - https://2023.aclweb.org/blog/ACL-2023-policy/