“Don’t Change (My Story) Unless …”: Relational Possibilities of GAI Chatbots in Reflective Writing

• In Event: AERA Research in Progress Roundtable Session One
  In Invited Roundtable: Research-in-Progress RT021 (Wednesday)

Abstract

This study focuses on the relational dynamics of Generative AI (GAI) Chatbots by comparing GAI Chatbots’ support with human peer-support in learners’ reflective writing experiences. Using a comparative case study research design, 12 participants were randomly assigned to either Group A (i.e., interacting with human peers first, followed by GAI chatbot interaction) or Group B (in reversed order) for two one-hour writing activities. The data, which included two pre- and post-interviews and participants’ interaction logs with GAI chatbots, were analyzed using discourse and thematic analyses. The preliminary findings include the “concerning yet irresistible presence” of the GAI chatbots, suggesting the relational possibilities and hazards that GAI Chatbots may pose on learners.

Authors

• Jusil Lee, Pennsylvania State University

• Xingxing Xie, Pennsylvania State University