Welcome to Francis Academic Press

Academic Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences, 2024, 7(7); doi: 10.25236/AJHSS.2024.070702.

The Study of the Correlation between AI-Assisted EFL Writing Frequency and Writing Anxiety among Chinese University Students

Author(s)

Ziqian Yu

Corresponding Author:
Ziqian Yu
Affiliation(s)

School of Foreign Languages, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational contexts has introduced new dynamics in second language acquisition, particularly concerning writing anxiety among Chinese university students. This study examines the correlation between AI-assisted English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing frequency and writing anxiety. A comprehensive questionnaire survey, utilizing Cheng’s Second Language Writing Anxiety Inventory (SLWAI), was conducted among 115 students. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses were performed using SPSS to evaluate cognitive anxiety, avoidance behavior, somatic anxiety, and the frequency of AI-assisted writing. The results indicate a significant positive correlation between the frequency of AI-assisted writing and all forms of writing anxiety, highlighting that frequent AI use corresponds with increased anxiety levels. These findings suggest that while AI tools can aid in completing writing tasks, they may also foster dependency and hinder the development of independent writing skills. It is crucial for educators to support students in building confidence and reducing AI reliance, ultimately enhancing their academic performance and adaptability in future professional environments.

Keywords

Writing anxiety, Second language acquisition, AI-assisted writing, EFL teachers

Cite This Paper

Ziqian Yu. The Study of the Correlation between AI-Assisted EFL Writing Frequency and Writing Anxiety among Chinese University Students. Academic Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences (2024) Vol. 7, Issue 7: 7-15. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJHSS.2024.070702.

References

[1] Cheng, Y. S. (2004). A measure of second language writing anxiety: Scale development and preliminary validation. Journal of Second Language Writing, 13(4), 313–335. 

[2] Cheng, Y. S. (2017). Development and preliminary validation of four brief measures of L2 language-skill-specific anxiety. System, 68, 15–25.  

[3] Daly, J. A., & Miller, M. D. (1975). The Empirical Development of an Instrument to Measure Writing Apprehension. Research in the Teaching of English, 9(3), 242–249. 

[4] Hawanti, S., & Zubaydulloevna, K. M. (2023). AI chatbot-based learning: alleviating students’ anxiety in English writing classroom. Bulletin of Social Informatics Theory and Application, 7(2), 182–192. 

[5] Horwitz, E. K., Horwitz, M. B., & Cope, J. (1986). Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety. The Modern Language Journal, 70(2), 125–132.  

[6] Krashen, S. (1981). Second language acquisition. Second Language Learning, 3(7), 19-39.

[7] Macintyre, P. D. (1995). How Does Anxiety Affect Second Language Learning? A Reply to Sparks and Ganschow. The Modern Language Journal, 79(1), 90–99. 

[8] Nguyen, T. T. H. (2023). EFL Teachers’ Perspectives toward the Use of ChatGPT in Writing Classes: A Case Study at Van Lang University. International Journal of Language Instruction, 2(3), 1–47. 

[9] Tahmouresi, S., & Papi, M. (2021). Future selves, enjoyment and anxiety as predictors of L2 writing achievement. Journal of Second Language Writing, 53, 100837.  

[10] Tran, T. T. T., Baldauf, R. B., & Moni, K. (2012). Foreign Language Anxiety: Understanding Its Status and Insiders’ Awareness and Attitudes. TESOL Quarterly, 47(2), 216–243.