In this joint project between swissuniversities, the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), the Zurich University of Teacher Education (PHZH), the Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) and the University of Neuchâtel, we are investigating how digital technologies can support the writing process. Artificial intelligence (AI) can help as part of intelligent tutoring or during automated writing assessment processes. We are working to integrate such AI-based technologies into university teaching and advisory services, doing so in a systematic and appropriate manner that allows both students and lecturers to benefit. In performing this work, we make use of and further develop computational linguistics methods.

This project investigates new writing strategies and best practices for efficient and effective text production. With generative artificial intelligence, the role of writers is changing, and new writing processes require new skills. Adapting to these new conditions, however, is a challenge for professionals, academics and students. Although it is tempting to use text generators to boost the efficiency of the text production process, understanding the changes in the writing process under these new conditions and the impact of new technology is crucial for developing best practices.

THEtool (text history extraction tool) is a freely accessible software application for analysing writing processes. It processes all keystrokes of a writing session and thus offers insights into text development by extracting text versions and providing a visual overview of the text creation process. THEtool is the first application to systematically reconstruct intermediate versions of all created sentences. This makes it possible to track the development of each sentence in the text, from the initial draft to its final version or complete deletion. THEtool allows researchers to automatically analyse large volumes of writing data from a linguistic perspective.