Course Description
Introduction to the theory, function, and ethical implications of computer-assisted writing tools, including Generative AI and software for producing and editing writing. Students will study the history of assistive writing technologies, think critically about the attendant rhetorical and practical issues of composing with such tools, and write with and about different AI writing platforms.
Athena Title
Writing Rhetoric and AI
Non-Traditional Format
The W suffix is used for courses taught as writing intensive, which means that the course includes substantial and ongoing writing assignments that a) facilitate learning; b) teach the communication values of a discipline—for example, its practices of argument, evidence, credibility, and format; c) support writing as a process; and d) prepare students for further writing in their academic work, in graduate school, and in professional life. Writing instruction and assignments are integral to the class’s learning objectives, and the instructor (and/or the teaching assistant assigned to the course) will be closely involved in supporting students as writers. More specifically, writing-intensive classes: • involve students in informal writing assignments that promote course learning; • stage and sequence assignments to encourage writing as a process of creating and communicating knowledge; • maximize opportunities for guidance, feedback, and revision; • teach the writing conventions that are inseparable from modes of inquiry in a discipline; and • make writing a substantive component of the overall course grade to underscore the value of writing to the course, the discipline, and student learning.
Prerequisite
ENGL 1102 or ENGL 1102E or ENGL 1102S or ENGL 1103 or ENGL 1050H or ENGL 1060H
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
Course Objectives: - Students will study the theory and history of assistive writing technologies. - Students will use and critique the outputs of various AI writing platforms and experiment with integrating AI into the writing process at various points (e.g., brainstorming, content production and revision, editing, etc.). - Students will perform academic research on subjects related to AI, writing, and rhetoric using a holistic revision process approach to writing that involves brainstorming, outlining, drafting, integrating feedback, revising, and polishing. - Students will discuss potential applications of and problems attendant to AI writing platforms and other assistive writing technologies.
Topical Outline
Specific course focuses will vary by year and instructor, but generally, this course will address the following topics: History, Functions and Mechanics of AI for communication (chat bots, assistive writing tech, machine reading, generative AI), for example: ELIZA and therapeutic chatbots Machine learning, language models, and natural language processing Theories and philosophies of artificial intelligence Representations of artificial intelligence in popular culture Written responses to readings Ethical considerations and concerns, for example: Classical rhetorical ethics Data collection and use Authorship and intellectual property Academic and professional honesty Working with sources Practical applications, for example: Systems theories (e.g., ANT) Professional and academic ethical use practice Predictive text, Grammarly, autocorrect, “assistive technologies.” Projecting potential AI futures Structuralism, poststructuralism, and neuroscience (e.g., Barthes; AJ Fletcher) Disciplinary forms and conventions Style and language use Writing as a process Revision Reflection and personal utility Portfolios