Negotiating Meaning with Machines: AI's Role in Doctoral Writing Pedagogy

Abstract

AbstractThis paper examines the integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in doctoral writing pedagogy. It explores how AI augments traditional teaching and composition processes, fosters a new paradigm of cognitive engagement and collaborative academic writing, and the broader ethical and social implications of human-AI writing in doctoral writing pedagogy. A community-engaged participatory research methodology was employed within a Doctor of Healthcare Administration program. Data were collected through discussion board messages, self-assessment papers, student reflections, and a focus group interview, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The research unearthed a hybrid human-AI writing process characterized by dynamic brainstorming, continuous negotiation of meaning, and comparative evaluation. These practices enhanced students' cognitive and metacognitive engagement, confidence, and learner agency, signifying a shift toward a collaborative approach to academic writing. The findings highlight the need for academic institutions to adapt policies and curricula to incorporate AI technologies ethically and responsibly. Emphasis on AI literacy and academic integrity is crucial for preparing graduates for an AI-integrated workforce. This study contributes to the understanding of AI's role in doctoral education, specifically doctoral writing development, presenting a novel perspective on the synergistic collaboration between students and AI in academic writing and its implications for institutional policies and writing pedagogy.