AIAP Integration in EAP

Overview of AIAP (Artificial Intelligence for Academic Purposes)

• AIAP Framework developed and implemented in a 10-week AI-integrated EAP (English for Academic Purposes) module at a Scottish pathway college.
• Objective: Address AI literacy for international students in EAP, focusing on generative AI (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT.
• Results Highlight: Improved students' critical evaluation of GenAI output and confidence in using AI tools ethically.

Introduction to Generative AI (GenAI)

• Definition: GenAI refers to AI that can create content (text, images, videos) based on user inputs or prompts.
• Concerns in Higher Education: Initial reaction to the release of ChatGPT 3.5 in late 2022 led to bans (Oxford, Cambridge) due to fears of academic misconduct. However, acceptance of its use has since evolved.
• Relevance: AI literacy is a crucial skill as AI is integrated into various workplace contexts.

Importance of AI Literacy in EAP

• Target Group: Primarily international students needing academic support in English-speaking environments.
• Shared Skills: Overlap between EAP skills (paraphrasing, summarizing) and functions of GenAI tools.

Literature Review

AI Literacy

• Definition (Long & Magerko): A set of competencies for evaluating, communicating, and collaborating with AI tools.
• Educational Importance: Essential for students, especially in an era where AI will shape job markets.
• Pedagogical Approaches: Focus on student-centered learning, hands-on experiences, and transparent communication.

Students' Attitudes Toward GenAI

• General Sentiment: Many students hold positive views of GenAI based on perceived educational benefits.
• Diverse Perspectives: Attitudes vary by discipline (humanities vs. STEM); humanities students may be less enthusiastic.

Confidence in AI Tools

• Predictor of Achievement: Confidence influences academic success, with studies indicating that familiarity with GenAI boosts confidence in its use.
• Concerns about Academic Misconduct: Many students express anxiety about using AI tools appropriately.

Methodology of AIAP Module

• Course Structure: Integrated AI literacy in EAP2, focusing on academic skills and language with a structured week-by-week approach.
• Components of AIAP:
  1. Vocabulary and concepts related to AI.
  2. Understanding AI mechanisms (genetic models, limitations).
  3. Prompt engineering techniques for effective AI interaction.
  4. Recommended tools and applications for academic use (e.g., ChatGPT, Elicit, Consensus).
  5. Ethical considerations in AI applications.

Results of Implementation

Quantitative Findings

1. Perceptions of GenAI:
   • Students showed increased critical evaluation of GenAI's biases post-module.
2. Confidence Levels:
   • Significant improvement in overall confidence and tool-specific confidence after the module.
3. Usage Increase:
   • Expanded purposes for using GenAI tools, notably in brainstorming and proofreading tasks.
4. Ethical Considerations:
   • Enhanced students' understanding of appropriate vs. inappropriate AI usage.

Qualitative Insights

• Evolving Mindsets: Students transitioned from fear to understanding, appreciating AI as a supportive tool rather than a threat to academic integrity.
• Peer Communication: Students discussed the benefits of AI for tasks such as drafting essays and generating questions for study.
• Continued Concerns: Some students remained apprehensive regarding the potential for misuse of AI tools, indicating a need for ongoing discussion and guidance.

Discussion of AIAP Outcomes

• Learning Outcomes: The integration of AI literacy into EAP enhances both technological proficiency and awareness of ethical implications.
• Holistic Approach: Combining AI literacy with academic skill development prepares students for an AI-driven academic landscape.
• Further Research: Advocates for broadening studies to include more diverse student populations and contexts to validate findings.