Writing Without Generative AI

This class examines the ways generative AI is impacting the world of writing studies. Using a critical digital literacy lens, we will examine how this technology intersects with harmful systems such as linguistic capitalism and highlights fundamental questions about why we write, what writing is for, and what makes human-generated writing essential to how we learn and think.

While the class will experiment with basic AI literacy practices, the primary goal is to understand the potential complications and harms of AI in writing, with a special focus on the emerging school of AI Refusal Practices in writing studies.

Students who are successful in this course will understand how generative AI tools work, understand the ethical implications of using AI tools, and be able to analyze and assess these AI tools connected to writing studies.

Readings will include the latest research on the impacts of AI in writing studies, including AI and homogenization, discrimination, and surveillance. We will also read opinion pieces and personal essays from various writing scholars and artists. Students will research and write personal philosophies regarding writing and generative AI, accompanying mixed media pieces, and short presentations on AI tools’ impact on a professional or academic field of their choosing.

Class will meet for three hours a week in the evening, with an additional hour of asynchronous class time during the week. Students should expect to complete workshops or responses to recorded materials as part of their asynchronous class time.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

2 - Writing

2 - Generative AI Ethics and Literacy