Harnessing AI in Secondary Education to Enhance Writing Competence

Abstract: The emergence of free AI tools like ChatGPT holds significant implications for developing writing skills in secondary education. This study examines AI's impact on students' writing competence and personal voice, balancing technological benefits against risks of dependency and plagiarism. We review the pros and cons of AI in the writing process, emphasizing process-based assessments, creativity-driven tasks, and AI as a supplement to teacher guidance. The discussion covers AI's role in the pre-writing, writing, and revision stages, and highlights the need for innovative assignments and critical thinking to maintain writing as a human, expressive activity. We advocate for a balanced approach to AI in education, ensuring it supports rather than replaces teacher instruction.