Dire predictions that artificial intelligence will render college writing instructors obsolete are unfounded. While ChatGPT is a valuable tool for generating reports and other business documents, it’s no match for human teaching when it comes to developing students’ writing skills.
Effective teaching of writing goes beyond bullet points and formulaic responses; it’s about cultivating a student’s persona – their unique voice and perspective. A well-crafted persona can command attention and inspire students to develop their own identity in writing. ChatGPT lacks this personal touch, which is essential for engaging students and fostering creativity.
Great ideas are also what make teaching writing effective. Human instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table, igniting debates and discussions that shape students’ worldviews. Students crave big, messy, mind-expanding concepts like nihilism or Rousseau’s “noble savage” versus human hubris. While AI can analyze language, it cannot replicate the power of human ideas.
Finally, teaching writing is not just about conveying information; it’s also about helping students develop discipline and focus in a chaotic world. Human instructors provide guidance on how to push through distractions and cultivate “deep work.” This is where ChatGPT falls short, as it cannot teach students perseverance or resilience.
Ultimately, AI is just one tool among many that educators can use to enhance their teaching. The key to effective writing instruction lies with the instructor themselves – their ability to shape thinkers, debaters, and problem-solvers through the power of human connection, creativity, and big ideas.
Source: https://eccunion.com/uncategorized/2025/03/14/guest-column-ai-wont-replace-college-writing-faculty