Embracing AI in Writing Education
Artificial intelligence is often seen as a threat in writing education, but it can be much more than that. Many educators worry that AI encourages lazy shortcuts, superficial content, or even cheating. This fear makes students hesitant to admit their use of tools like ChatGPT. Yet, the reality is clear: most students are already using AI to support their writing.
A 2025 report from the Higher Education Policy Institute in the U.K. found that 92% of university students use AI in some form. At Kennesaw State University, where research has been conducted, over half of first-year students believe AI will shape the future of writing. Since AI use is widespread, it’s crucial to focus on how it can enhance the writing process rather than hinder it.
Helping with the Busywork
According to a February 2025 OpenAI report, more than 25% of ChatGPT conversations among college-aged users are related to education. The top uses include:
- Starting papers and projects (49%)
- Summarizing long texts (48%)
- Brainstorming creative projects (45%)
- Exploring new topics (44%)
- Revising writing (44%)
This data challenges the idea that students just use AI to cheat. Instead, it suggests that AI helps automate routine tasks like information gathering and grammar checks. This frees up students to focus on deeper thinking—organizing ideas, sharpening arguments, and refining style. AI changes how students think rather than reducing their effort.
Of course, passive use of AI—accepting outputs without thought—can dull a student’s unique voice. But with intentional use, AI becomes a tool that supports critical thinking and creativity.
Clarifying the Creative Vision
AI can also boost creativity when used thoughtfully. For example, science comedy writer Sarah Rose Siskind uses ChatGPT to brainstorm joke setups and explore scenarios. This approach lets her concentrate on crafting punchlines and timing, with AI providing consistent feedback. Rather than replacing creativity, AI amplifies it.
Another example is the Rhetorical Prompting Method developed by researchers at Kennesaw State University. This framework guides writers to engage with AI intentionally. By using precise prompts, reflecting critically, and revising outputs, writers can shape AI-generated content to fit their vision.
There’s Still a Process
The Rhetorical Prompting Method aligns with established process writing techniques, emphasizing revision and refinement. When using ChatGPT, success depends on revisiting and tweaking prompts and outputs.
For instance, a student creating a social media PSA about campus composting might start with a simple prompt. After reading the AI’s first draft, she notices it lacks urgency. She adjusts the prompt to emphasize immediate impact and adds details like event location. The final message could read:
“Every scrap counts! Join campus composting today at the Commons. Your leftovers aren’t trash—they’re tomorrow’s gardens. Help our university bloom brighter, one compost bin at a time.”
Research shows this method helps writers maintain control. In a study involving 133 users of the Rhetorical Prompting Method,
- 92% said it improved their evaluation of writing choices
- 75% reported maintaining their authentic voice
- 89% felt it encouraged critical thinking about their writing
These findings suggest students take their writing seriously and use AI thoughtfully. While preliminary, the data points to AI as a partner in writing, not a shortcut around it.
Since AI use is here to stay, providing frameworks like the Rhetorical Prompting Method can help writers use these tools effectively. Viewing AI as a collaborator opens up new ways to write, revise, and explore ideas.
For writers looking to improve their AI skills, courses on ChatGPT and prompt engineering can offer practical guidance on working with AI in creative and professional writing.
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