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April 26, 2026Journal of China Computer-Assisted Language Learning0 citationsOpen Access

Generative AI-enhanced self-study materials for TOEFL-style in-class integrated writing test: student perceptions of skill development and material quality in an EMI university

SZShuangxin ZhangJWJiashi Wang

Key Points

  • This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Generative AI-enhanced materials in developing writing skills for TOEFL-style tests in an EAP context.
  • Investigated pre- and post-test writing performance of students using AI-enhanced materials at an EMI university.
  • Collected questionnaire and interview data to assess perceived skill gains and material quality.
  • Analyzed differences in writing scores based on student engagement levels with the materials.
  • Statistically significant improvement in writing performance from pre- to post-tests among students.
  • Students with higher engagement saw notably better scores compared to less engaged peers.
  • Feedback highlighted skill gains but noted concerns over unnatural language and complexity in materials.

Abstract

Abstract This study investigates the effectiveness of generative AI (GenAI)-enhanced reading and listening materials, complemented by AI-generated writing samples, in developing students’ summarising and synthesising skills for an integrated writing test in an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) context. Findings revealed a statistically significant improvement in students’ writing performance from pre- to post-tests, with students who engaged more consistently showing higher scores than their peers. Questionnaire and interview data confirmed perceived skill gains in areas such as summarising, synthesising, and overall writing structure, alongside increased motivation and confidence. Despite positive impacts, concerns about unnatural language, vocabulary complexity and grammatical homogenisation underscore the need for careful adaptation by teachers. This research highlights the potential of well-implemented GenAI-enhanced tasks to support academic writing development when thoughtfully integrated into EAP instruction.

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Cite This Study

Zhang et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69edac074a46254e215b3ce0https://doi.org/10.1515/jccall-2025-0030
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