AI as a Bridge, Not a Shortcut

Abstract

How can instructors use AI to support students through complex research-writing tasks without replacing the human guidance that makes those tasks meaningful? This presentation examines intentionally designed AI-integrated “Baby Steps” assignments in a research methods course, where AI was used not as a shortcut, but as a feedback and organizational tool to help students move from early research ideas toward stronger research questions and more prepared introduction drafts. The assignment sequence along with one-on-one instructor meetings is built into the process to help students stay on track. In this structure, AI functioned as a bridge between independent student preparation and in-person meetings, helping students clarify their ideas, understand the steps of research writing, and arrive at meetings more prepared. The presentation will share anonymous student feedback on how helpful, manageable, and connected these AI-supported steps felt within the larger process of writing a research proposal. It will also consider students’ suggestions about where AI should be added, limited, or kept separate in future stages of research-paper preparation. By focusing on student experience, the presentation highlights both the promise and the tensions of AI integration in teaching: how AI can deepen engagement and reduce confusion, while still requiring careful structure, human guidance, and meaningful instructor-student interaction.

Presenters