Balancing Innovation and Cognition: Influence of Artificial Intelligence on ESL Writing Skills at the Tertiary Level

Abstract

With the recent development in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the ESL learners are relying heavily on the AI-powered tools like Grammarly, QuillBot, ChatGPT, and Turnitin. This study aims to examine the influence of these AI tools on the writing proficiency of ESL learners with a special emphasis on the development of vocabulary, grammar, fluency, and coherence in writing. A mixed-method approach has been adopted for the conduct of this research. 100 ESL learners from Govt. Postgraduate College Samanabad Faisalabad were selected as a sample of this research. AI tools were integrated into the writing classes of ESL learners for the period of one month. Pre-test and post-test techniques were used for data collection, and quantitative data was analysed with paired sample t-tests, which revealed significant improvement in the writing of ESL learners. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect qualitative data. Analysis of qualitative showed that the students had an improvement in confidence, a reduction in plagiarism, and a grip on language. Nonetheless, it has been observed that AI tools have diminished critical thinking and creativity. The findings of this study emphasize that there is a need for striking a balance between the use of AI and teachers’ guidance so that creativity and originality in writing may be maintained. In sum, the current study complements the ongoing research on the use of AI in the pedagogy of the English language and provides useful insight for curriculum developers, ESL instructors, and students.