The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Tools on Academic Writing in Higher Education

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, providing new ways for students to improve their writing ability. These tools can help with tasks such as grammar and spell-checking, generating topic ideas, and even offering suggestions for improvements in style and structure. The effects of such tools on users and students writing ability have been the subject of recent research, with some studies indicating positive outcomes. The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools has transformed various aspects of education, particularly in academic writing. This study investigates the impact of AI-assisted writing tools on university students' writing skills, focusing on areas such as grammar, structure, vocabulary, coherence, and critical thinking. Using a quasi-experimental research design, the study evaluates students' writing performance on utilizing AI tools. The research involved 30 university students enrolled in Business English language courses at University of Tirana, Albania. The findings of the research provide insights to educators navigating the integration of Artificial Intelligence tools into writing curricula while maintaining instructional quality and academic integrity standards in Albania, and not only. However, the study also reveals concerns about over-reliance on AI, which may hinder the development of students' critical thinking and original writing abilities. Student feedback indicates that AI tools are generally seen as beneficial for refining writing but should be used as supplements rather than replacements for independent writing efforts. This study contributes to understanding the role of AI in higher education writing and provides recommendations for educators, students, and policymakers on the ethical and effective use of AI tools in academic contexts. Key words: Artificial Intelligence, Academic Writing, AI tools, Higher Education