Empowering Subject Matter Awareness through Exploratory Practice: Embracing Practitioner Research in the AI Era

Abstract

A noteworthy challenge encountered among university EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners lies in their deficiency pertaining to subject matter awareness, a crucial dimension of self-directed learning. This deficiency mainly hampers their ability to effectively deploy critical thinking strategies. This issue has been further exacerbated by the prevalent trend of students heavily relying on Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for various educational tasks. To address this multifaceted challenge, this experimental research was conducted within a Lebanese English medium university. The core objective of the study was to cultivate students' subject matter awareness by integrating the Exploratory Practice [EP] instructional approach into their writing classes. The research encompassed two distinct groups: an experimental group and a control group. In-depth exploration was pursued using a mixed-methods approach. The outcomes of the study highlighted a significant transformation within the experimental group's subject matter awareness. In conclusion, this study underscores the imperative of nurturing students' subject matter awareness. Through skillful incorporation of EP into writing classes, educators can cultivate a revitalized sense of self-directedness and cultivate critical engagement within learners. This strategic integration not only equips them with essential skills but also empowers them to navigate the complex educational landscape infused with AI.