AI and Writing: What Problem Are We Trying to Solve?

Hosts Mike Pearson and Pat Burns welcome Jane Rosenzweig, director of the Harvard College Writing Center. Jane, an experienced educator and writer, delves deep into the implications of using AI in educational settings.

Jane discusses her initial skepticism and gradual exploration of AI tools. She talks about an op-ed she wrote just prior to the release of ChatGPT, which foreshadowed the current discourse around AI in writing.

The conversation shifts to Jane's course titled "To What Problem is ChatGPT the Solution?", which encourages critical thinking about the role of AI in writing. She underscores the importance of understanding AI's capabilities and limitations, advocating for an informed use rather than outright dependency.

Jane and the hosts discuss the students' divided opinions on AI's utility in writing. They agree that u ...