From Passive Recipients to Active Editors: Using Generative AI to develop Digital Literacy in Undergraduate General English Writing Courses

This study examines how generative AI tools can be used as teaching aids in college English writing classes and how ChatGPT can help undergraduate students enhance their digital literacy, critical thinking, and writing strategies. A case study shows that ChatGPT overall reduced the students' anxiety, basic grammar errors, and helped maintain coherence and style. However, many students tended to accept the ChatGPT's suggestions uncritically, revealing their over-reliance on the tool. To address this and to encourage a students-led learning environment and their critical engagement, students were required to document the reasons for accepting or rejecting the AI-generated feedback. This approach strengthened both their writing skills and their ability to view AI as a collaborative partner rather than an unquestionable authority.