Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, are emergent technologies impacting writing pedagogy in immediate, practical, and theoretical ways. Annette Vee, Associate Professor of English at Pitt, argues for the value of developing critical AI literacy in classroom spaces. She defines critical AI literacy as “the ability to understand, apply, and assess AI operations, uses, and outputs.” At the Writing Center, we encourage discussions about critical AI literacy and its impact on writing practices and writers’ experiences.
As we support writers at Pitt as they navigate this new terrain, we have established the following policy to help guide our practice.
At Pitt's Writing Center, we prioritize:
- A metacognitive approach to writing.
The Writing Center values working with writers as they develop and refine metacognitive writing strategies and skills, like brainstorming, generating topics and ideas, formulating approaches, outlining, drafting, reflecting on their writing process, critiquing and considering generative AI tools, and other practices. We value the generative properties of human writers in these processes and remain hesitant about employing Generative AI in these metacognitive processes.
- An adaptive approach to writing.
Consultants at the Writing Center recognize different students may rely on different tools, strategies, and approaches to writing tasks, including the use of technological tools. Writing Center consultants aim to provide a space that accommodates and values these adaptive learning and writing strategies.
- A supportive approach to Generative AI.
The Writing Center will work with a writer with any text – including texts that have AI-generated elements – and will work with the student where they are. Sessions at the Writing Center remain confidential, unless the writer requests that information be shared with another party, like a course professor or advisor.
- Academic freedom.
The Writing Center values the academic freedom of all writers to explore different ideas and methods to write. We also value the academic freedom of our Writing Center consultants to use or not use different technological tools based on their own pedagogical practices.
- Academic integrity.
Writing Center consultants may ask for clarification about an AI-policy that may influence the writer’s choices. For example, a student writer may be asked to share the professor’s AI policy that is included in the course syllabus. We will also recommend and assist with citations for AI-generated material. We can help you determine where citation is necessary to avoid academic integrity violations while respecting your privacy in these matters.
- Environmentally-conscious tutoring practices.
We aim to be mindful of the environmental impact of our practices, including Generative AI tools. When appropriate, we will share this information with writers. In addition, we aim to continuously develop our own understanding about the environmental impact of Generative AI use and adapt approaches accordingly.