As schools increasingly embrace AI tools to enhance learning, some studies show that the inclusion of generative AI introduces both challenges and opportunities, particularly in EFL/ESL writing classes. Not only has AI changed the way students learn, but it has also affected how we teach. Although not all the changes are welcome, it is important to move with the times and welcome the new while retaining the old. 

Challenges of AI 

Perhaps the first conundrum is the difficulty faced by teachers to determine to what extent AI is used by individual learners to write their assignments. In contrast to previous technologies like grammar and spell check features or APPs, AI can now produce not just a sentence but generate a whole essay. As an example, Grammarly, a popular student writing aid has upped its game by including a free AI Writing Assistance feature. So, what are the implications for students’ writing progress? First, access to AI now casts doubt on the integrity of their writing. Second, it is worrying that students may pass an exam not on their own merit but with the assistance of AI, and therefore not demonstrate their actual competency.   

It is therefore becoming increasingly important to study the actual impact of AI generative tools in student writing so that we are better prepared to combat adverse effects. More than ever, we need to see AI as something that will help to improve students’ performance. This means that we need to use it more responsibly, especially when teaching writing. Given that we often find it difficult to tell whether the learner is using AI, the risk of plagiarism is that much greater.  

We ought to view it as a tool to improve writing by integrating it responsibly in the EFL writing context. Students typically use technology for a range of writing tasks, including brainstorming, outlining, revisions, and editing. They think it speeds up the writing process because it provides quick feedback and helps them to continue to learn. However, we also feel that depending too much on AI could rob learners of their creativity and lower their grades overall.  

The Pros

That said, the advantages of AI tools outweigh the disadvantages. For example, they engage learners in a range of tasks and offer a fresh approach to writing which is more communicative. Instead of focusing on brainstorming, planning and organizing ideas only, learners can collaborate during the writing process in the comfort of secure pair or group work settings. This makes academic writing an enjoyable exercise. 

Some Recommendations

As we have voiced concerns regarding the increase in plagiarism, online detectors like Turnitin are getting better at identifying AI generated essays. This is a good reason for school admins to invest in AI detectors to minimize copy and paste incidents.  

Other Suggestions

• Utilize more oral assessments instead of writing tasks. 

• Have students submit their work as pen and paper assignments/tasks.

• Other components can be incorporated such as group writing, presentations and audio/video recordings.

• We could also consider shifting from results-based exams to process oriented assessments where students can present drafts for evaluation instead of the finished product. This would showcase the writing process.

• We should also offer guided AI assistance in the classroom so that students use it responsibly.

• It could be an excellent tool for scaffolding activities such as writing practice, looking at samples, and in the moment feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, policymakers should set out guidelines on the responsible use of generative AI tools and ensure that these policies are reviewed regularly with input from teachers, students, and school administrators. 

Now that AI is here to stay, perhaps it is better to embrace the positives and acknowledge that classroom instruction, learning, and assessment must be developed to accommodate the new technology for the benefit of everyone.