Tag: essay writing

A Way to Save the Essay

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A stylized visual showing a classic, handwritten essay page being protected by a glowing, modern digital shield or frame, symbolizing the integration of new methods to preserve the integrity of traditional writing assignments against AI interference. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.
Rescuing the written word: Exploring innovative teaching and assessment strategies designed to preserve the value and necessity of the traditional essay in the age of generative AI. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.

Source

Inside Higher Ed

Summary

Philosophy instructor Lily Abadal argues that the traditional take-home essay has long been failing as a measure of critical thinking—an issue made undeniable by the rise of generative AI. Instead of abandoning essays altogether, she advocates for “slow-thinking pedagogy”: a semester-long, structured, in-class writing process that replaces rushed, last-minute submissions with deliberate research, annotation, outlining, drafting and revision. Her scaffolded model prioritises depth over content coverage and cultivates intellectual virtues such as patience, humility and resilience. Abadal contends that meaningful writing requires time, struggle and independence—conditions incompatible with AI shortcuts—and calls for designated AI-free spaces where students can practise genuine thinking and writing.

Key Points

  • Traditional take-home essays often reward superficial synthesis rather than deep reasoning.
  • AI exposes existing weaknesses by enabling polished but shallow student work.
  • “Slow-thinking pedagogy” uses structured, in-class writing to rebuild genuine engagement.
  • Scaffolded steps—research, annotation, thesis development, outlining, drafting—promote real understanding.
  • Protecting AI-free spaces supports intellectual virtues essential for authentic learning.

Keywords

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URL

https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/career-advice/teaching/2025/11/07/way-save-essay-opinion

Summary generated by ChatGPT 5

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My Students Use AI. So What?

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A confident female teacher stands at the center of a modern classroom, holding up a tablet that displays a world map, symbolizing global connection. She looks directly at the viewer with a slight smile. Around her, a diverse group of college-aged students are seated at collaborative tables, actively working on laptops that show glowing digital interfaces. Above the entire scene, a large, vibrant word cloud hovers, with prominent words like "CREATIVITY," "INNOVATION," "COLLABORATION," "CRITICAL THINKING," and "PROBLEM-SOLVING," all associated with AI and learning. The words are illuminated with a soft, energetic glow. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.
In a world where AI is ubiquitous, some educators are embracing its presence in the classroom. This image captures the perspective of a teacher who views AI not as a threat, but as an integral tool that can foster creativity, innovation, and critical thinking, challenging traditional views on technology in education. Image (and typos) generated by Nano Banana.

Source

The Atlantic

Summary

John McWhorter, a linguist and professor at Columbia University, argues that fears about artificial intelligence destroying academic integrity are exaggerated. He contends that educators should adapt rather than resist, acknowledging that AI has become part of how students read, write, and think. While traditional essay writing once served as a key training ground for argumentation, AI now performs that function efficiently, prompting teachers to develop more relevant forms of assessment. McWhorter urges educators to replace formulaic essays with classroom discussions, personal reflections, and creative applications that AI cannot replicate. Grammar and stylistic rules, he suggests, should no longer dominate education; instead, AI can handle mechanical precision, freeing students to focus on reasoning and ideas. For McWhorter, the goal is not to preserve outdated academic rituals but to help students learn to think more deeply in a changed world.

Key Points

  • The author challenges alarmist narratives about AI eroding higher education.
  • AI has replaced traditional essay writing as a mechanical exercise but not genuine thought.
  • Teachers should create assessments that require personal insight and classroom engagement.
  • Grammar and stylistic conventions are becoming obsolete as AI handles technical writing.
  • AI allows students to focus on creativity, reasoning, and synthesis rather than busywork.
  • The shift mirrors earlier transitions in media—from print to digital—without diminishing intellect.

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URL

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/10/ai-college-crisis-overblown/684642/

Summary generated by ChatGPT 5

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