26 Module Four: Ethical Considerations in AI-Assisted Writing
Week 4: Ethical Considerations in AI-Assisted Writing
- Discussion on the ethical implications of AI in writing
- Case studies on AI-generated content controversies
- Week Four Discussion Due Sunday
4.01: If You Use AI, Are You a Writer?
Watch these two short videos sharing differing perspectives about writing with AI. Which one resonates more with your views on this subject?
4.02 Read an Article on AI and Creative Writing
Thurlow, Steven. “The other side of AI: Writing, thinking and creativity in an age of Artificial Intelligence.” Journal of Academic Language & Learning, Vol 17, No. 1, 2023. https://journal.aall.org.au/index.php/jall/article/view/943
Think about how AI has changed since this article was published.
4.03 Discussion: The Changing Landscape for Professional Writers
- 😀 Share three words that describe your feelings about AI’s impact on professional writing and creative work.
- 🤖 Use your preferred AI tool with this prompt: “Analyze how AI writing tools are reshaping the job market in journalism, publishing, and content creation. Discuss both benefits and risks to professional writers. Include specific examples of how writers’ roles are changing and what new opportunities might emerge. Provide concrete ways writers can adapt their skills to stay competitive.” Post the AI’s response in italics.
- 😀 Examine the AI’s analysis. What has it missed about the real-world impacts on writers? Share a specific example you’ve encountered or read about where AI tools have changed how writing work is done (this could be from news articles, personal experience, or industry discussions). Then explain how you would advise a new writer entering the field today – what skills should they focus on developing to succeed alongside AI?
4.04 Discussion: Authenticity and Creative Expression
- Think of a piece of creative work you’re proud of (an article, story, artwork, etc.). What makes it authentically “yours”?
- 🤖 Use an AI tool with this prompt: “I want to create [type of work you mentioned]. Suggest three ways AI could help enhance my creative process while maintaining authenticity. Explain how each suggestion preserves human creativity.” Share the AI’s response in italics.
- 😀 Evaluate the AI’s suggestions. Which feel acceptable to you as a creator, and which cross your personal line for authentic creation? What criteria do you use to decide when AI assistance becomes too much? Share how you would establish guidelines for AI use in your creative field.
Bonus points: 🤖Have an AI tool write a short poem or microfiction short story (100-499 words) and share your results in the discussion.
4.05 Research Assignment
Due Sunday 11:59 pm
Find and analyze a real-world case study where AI-generated content has created controversy in creative industries. This could be:
- A dispute over AI-generated art or writing
- A policy change by a publication regarding AI content
- A debate over AI attribution in creative works
Your analysis should include:
- A summary of the incident/controversy
- The key stakeholders’ perspectives
- The ethical implications raised
- Your assessment of how the situation was handled
- Recommendations for similar future scenarios
Length: 500-750 words with citations from at least two reputable sources. You may use a generative AI tool to assist you with this assignment, but remember to acknowledge and cite if you do.
Rubric
Research (5 points)
- Found relevant case study (2 pts)
- Used at least two credible sources (3 pts)
Content (10 points)
- Clear summary of incident (2 pts)
- Explained different perspectives (2 pts)
- Discussed ethical issues (2 pts)
- Evaluated how it was handled (2 pts)
- Made future recommendations (2 pts)
Writing (5 points)
- Met length requirement (500-750 words) (2 pts)
- Clear writing with citations (3 pts)
Total: __/20 points
For each item:
- Full points: Meets all requirements
- Half points: Partially meets requirements
- Zero points: Does not meet requirements
