From Rivals to Allies: How AI‐Driven Intelligent Pairing Reshapes Competition, Collaboration, and Emotions in L2 Writing Classrooms

ABSTRACT This study investigates the effectiveness of AI‐driven intelligent pairing in enhancing writing performance, fostering collaboration, modulating competition, and improving epistemic emotions in academic writing. Participants ( n = 93) were divided into three groups: the first experimental group received AI‐driven intelligent paring learning, the second received AI‐enhanced but non‐paired intelligent learning, and the control group used a non‐AI‐enhanced application focused on modeling writing structures. A mixed‐methods design was employed, utilizing writing tests, questionnaires, and semi‐structured interviews. Results showed significant improvements in writing performance, collaboration, and epistemic emotions in both experimental groups, with the first group achieving the highest gains. Competition decreased in the first group, remained stable in the second, and increased in the control group. Qualitative findings supported these results, revealing that structured feedback and peer collaboration fostered confidence and engagement, while the absence of AI‐driven support led to frustration and heightened competition. These findings suggest that AI‐driven interventions can enhance writing skills and emotional engagement, particularly when structured peer collaboration is integrated.