Augmented Creativity: Leveraging Natural Language Processing for Creative Writing

Abstract

Recent advances have moved natural language processing (NLP) capabilities with artificial intelligence beyond mere grammar and spell-checking functionality. One such new use that has arisen is the ability to suggest new content to writers to inspire new ideas by using "machine-in-the-loop" strategies in creative writing. In order to explore the possibilities of such a strategy, this study provides a model to be adopted in creative writing courses in higher education. An NLP application was created using Python and spaCy and deployed via Streamlit. The AI allowed students to see if their grammar aligned with those principles and techniques taught in class to assist with a deeper understanding of the grammatical aspects of the content and also to improve their creativity as writers. The study at hand seeks to determine the efficacy of a new proprietary NLP on improving understanding of grammar and creativity in student writing. Participants in the study were assessed through surveys and open-ended questions. Findings note that participants agreed the algorithm assisted them in a better understanding of grammar but were not as receptive to assistance in improving their creativity. It should also be noted that the suggestions provided by the algorithm did not necessarily improve the written artifacts submitted in the study. Results indicate that students enjoy using NLP as part of the creative writing process but largely, as with other language processing tools, to assist with grammar and syntax.

Working With (Not Against) the Technology: GPT3 and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in College Composition

“…In other words, students found the tool helpful in the learning process as long as it supplemented traditional feedback instead of supplanting it. The same results were more recently confirmed in a study by in a study of the use of AI to support teaching and learning in college creative writing courses [15].…”

“…Overcoming writer's block is one such area of formative assistance that AI has already proven effective. Other students who are more proficient will be able to use AI to further hone their abilities, and studies speak to this [15].…”

“…87% of students who were accused of "cheating" by integrating AI-generated content into a final essay reported that actually doing so was much more complicated than writing the paper themselves [16]. The claims of students are borne out in other studies as well, which note that for successful use of AI essay generating tools, pre-planned interventions on the part of the instructor must be included, as well as communication and collaboration skills reinforced in groupwork [13][14][15].…”