A Case Study of Utilizing ChatGPT as an Assistant Writing Partner in a PBL College Writing Course

Abstract

Objectives This study presents a case study of utilizing ChatGPT in a project-based writing course, and explores its applicability and effectiveness. Through the course, an examination was conducted on the roles, strengths, and weaknesses of ChatGPT as a writing assistant tool by investigating students’ vivid responses, evaluations, and their perception of the effectiveness and satisfaction with the use of ChatGPT in the course.
 Methods To achieve this, a project-based writing course model utilizing ChatGPT was designed and implemented for 227 students enrolled in a “Basic College Writing” course at a four-year university, quantitative and qualitative data were collected through online surveys, weekly reflective journals uploaded by students to the LMS, course evaluations, and descriptive responses. A mixed-methods research approach was employed to analyze the data, allowing for an examination of the effectiveness and benefits and limitations of utilizing ChatGPT as an assistant writing partner.
 Results The findings revealed that students perceived knowledge utilization as the most effective aspect in the project-based writing course using ChatGPT, followed by communication and social skills, self-directed learning abilities, writing self-efficacy and problem-solving skills. While students recognized ChatGPT as a useful tool for idea generation and improving writing depth, they encountered difficulties in verifying its information, highlighting the need for fact-checking and responsible use. Additionally, the instant feedback feature of ChatGPT was highly valued for creating a psychologically safe writing environment.
 Conclusions This study exhibited that the project-based writing course utilizing ChatGPT has a positive impact on students’ overall writing learning experience. It was found to be effective in providing personalized support, timely feedback, and access to wide range of knowledge, thereby fostering creative and critical thinking in a college writing course, However, both instructors and students should remain attentive to the limitations of ChatGPT and ensure its ethical and responsible use through ongoing vigilance.