Generative AI in Technical Communication: A Review of Research from 2023 to 2024

Carol Reeves Butler University ; J.J. Sylvia Fitchburg State University

Abstract

Since its release in late 2022, ChatGPT and subsequent generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools have raised a wide variety of questions and concerns for the field of technical communication: How will these tools be incorporated into professional settings? How might we appropriately integrate these tools into our research and teaching? In this review, we examine research published in 2023–2024 addressing these questions ( N = 28). Overall, we find preliminary evidence that GAI tools can positively impact student writing and assessment; they also have the potential to assist with some aspects of academic and medical research and writing. However, there are concerns about their reliability and the ethical conundrums raised when they are used inappropriately or when their outputs cannot be distinguished from humans. More research is needed for evidence-based teaching and research strategies as well as policies guiding ethical use. We offer suggestions for new research avenues and methods.

Journal
Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published
2024-10-01
DOI
10.1177/00472816241260043
Open Access
Closed
Topics

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (4)

  1. Technical Communication Quarterly
  2. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
  3. Computers and Composition
  4. Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

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