Ohio University students, professor present research on AI and writing at state conference

Students and faculty from Ohio University recently explored the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and student writing, bringing their research and classroom experiences to educators across the state at the Ohio Council of Teachers of English Language Arts conference.

The conference was held at the Cherry Valley Hotel and Conference Center in Newark, Ohio from March 6-7, 2026. 

Dr. Kevin Cordi worked alongside four students—Cheyanne Kifer, Jae Chance, Alyssa Condrac and Tabi Eveland—to study how artificial intelligence can influence writing instruction. As part of the project, the students not only conducted research but also developed and taught lessons in classrooms, engaging younger students in discussions about AI and its role in the writing process.

“Each student prepared not only lessons, but from reflections and deep reading by experts, started conversations around artificial intelligence. They did more than study if students were using it. Instead, I was impressed by the depth of their thinking and the work they did from authentic contexts. I am proud of my students. They realize this study will only help them as they prepare to teach future students,” said Cord, who is an associate professor in the Patton College of Education.

Each student examined the effects of artificial intelligence in writing contexts, discovering both opportunities and challenges as technology becomes more present in schools.

Image

Eveland, who is a student on the Ohio University Lancaster campus, was particularly struck by the ways AI could support, rather than replace, student thinking.

“While using AI in my sixth grade classroom, I was surprised by how it could act as a brainstorming partner for students rather than a replacement for their thinking,” Eveland said. “When used carefully, AI helped students generate ideas and improve their writing while keeping their own voice and creativity at the center of the process.”

Chance, who is studying on the Ohio University Eastern campus, designed an assignment asking students to evaluate whether artificial intelligence should be used as a tool for writers and learners. After some students concluded there are stronger alternatives and resources for crafting a text, the activity reinforced her perspective on the importance of teaching and mentorship.

“It is important to me that we remember the utilization of tools in the classroom is incredibly difficult to achieve without good teachers…not a single thing can replace an extraordinary teacher in the classroom,” she shared.

Cordi and his students were selected to present their work at the statewide conference, where three of the students shared their research and classroom experiences with fellow educators.

Chance said the experience broadened her perspective on the profession.

After hearing from many experienced educators, authors, and illustrators in the field of English language arts, she reflected on the dedication and passion that shape effective teaching. The experience left her with new ideas and values that will strengthen her goal of becoming the best educator she can be.

For Cordi, the project reflects the power of connecting university study with real classroom experiences.

“We can only do so much in the confides of the university classrooms, but when students like these take the initiative to move the study to the classrooms, work together for deeper learning and present their findings. I know they will not only be great future teachers, but powerful learners. This makes for even better teaching for their future students,” Cordi said.

For additional information, contact Cordi at cordi@ohio.edu. Students involved in the project are also available to provide further insight and answer questions about the research.