Innovation in Language Learning
The Effectiveness of Write & Improve, An Automated Writing Evaluation (AWE) Tool, in Improving Students' Grammatical Accuracy in Writing
Nguyen LA, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (Viet Nam)
Pham TMD, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (Viet Nam)
Dang NL, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (Viet Nam)
Abstract
Grammar accuracy plays a key role in English writing, but many English learners still have difficulty using grammar correctly. Therefore, appropriate support is needed to help improve this skill. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of Write & Improve, an Automated Writing Evaluation (AWE) tool, in improving students' grammatical accuracy in writing and to explore students' perceptions of using the tool in English writing instruction. A mixed-methods design is employed, combining an experiment with questionnaires. The participants are third-year English-major students taking the Advanced Writing course at the Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (IUH). A writing pre-test is administered before the use of Write & Improve, and a post-test is conducted after several weeks of practice with the tool. During the study, students complete and revise their essays based on the tool's instant feedback. The pre-test and post-test scores will be compared to examine changes in students' grammatical accuracy, while questionnaires will be used to collect students' feedback on using the tool. The findings are expected to provide insights into the effectiveness of Write & Improve in improving students' grammatical accuracy and the role of instant feedback in helping students recognize and correct their mistakes. The study may also provide insights into how the tool can support students in becoming more confident and independent writers.
Keywords: Write & Improve, Automated Writing Evaluation, grammatical accuracy, English writing, EFL student.
Themes: AI-Augmented Pedagogy; Language Teaching and Learning
