Exploring the Use Of ChatGPT for Enhancing Academic Writing and Critical Thinking in English Language Graduate Programs
Keywords:
ChatGPT in Academic Writing, Critical Thinking, English Language Teaching (ELT), Artificial Intelligence in EducationAbstract
The rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly ChatGPT, has ignited considerable debate regarding its impact on higher education. This study explores the perceptions of graduate students and instructors within English Language Teaching (ELT) master's programs concerning the use of ChatGPT to enhance academic writing and critical thinking skills. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study involved 25 graduate students and 6 instructors from UNDIKMA context, e.g., a leading university's ELT master's program. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews designed to elicit in-depth insights into participants' experiences, attitudes, and concerns. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring patterns and themes within the interview data. Preliminary findings reveal that while students largely perceive ChatGPT as a valuable tool for ideation, language refinement, and overcoming writer's block, instructors express a mixed sentiment, highlighting both its potential benefits for skill development support and significant concerns regarding academic integrity, originality, and the potential for over-reliance, which could hinder the development of genuine critical thinking. A notable divergence in perceptions was observed, with students generally more optimistic about ChatGPT's utility, while instructors emphasized the need for cautious integration and clear ethical guidelines. These findings underscore the importance of open dialogue and the development of robust institutional policies to guide the ethical and effective use of generative AI in academic settings. This research offers critical insights for educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers aiming to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in language education and foster the development of essential academic skills in the digital age.
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