Unmuting Critical Thinking: How Orality Defies the AI Takeover of Writing

• In Event: Equity and Inclusion Across Diverse Literacy Contexts

Abstract

This paper argues for a renewed emphasis on orality to authentically assess critical thinking in the age of AI-generated writing. Drawing from Ong's theory of orality-literacy contrasting with Greek rhetorical traditions, this study examines how one teacher employs structured oral assignments in two AP seminar classes. Preliminary findings suggest speech-based assessments can mitigate the weaking of independent student thought and critical thinking caused by AI reliance.

Author

• Bridget Newell, University of Florida