Quantitative Research
Quantitative Research
CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM
Definition of Terms
In order to provide clarity and ensure a common understanding of the key concept
used throughout this study, the following terms are both conceptually defined and
operationally defined.
Academic Integrity. Academic integrity refers to the ethical code of academia, which
includes values such as avoiding plagiarism, cheating, and ensuring honesty in research and
writing (Macfarlane et al., 2014).
In this study, academic integrity focuses on the concerns raised regarding the potential
misuse of AI tools by students for cheating or fabricating content in their English
assignments.
Adaptive Learning. Adaptive learning is an educational approach that uses technology and
algorithms to personalize the learning experience, adjusting content and pacing based on the
learner's needs and performance (Gibson & Webb, 2013).
In this study, adaptive learning refers to how AI tools such as Grammarly and ChatGPT
provide personalized feedback to students, helping them improve their English writing at
their own pace.
Critical Thinking. Critical thinking is the intellectually disciplined process of actively and
skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information to
reach conclusions (Paul & Elder, 2014).
In this study, critical thinking refers to the ability of students to independently analyze and
evaluate information in their English writing, without over-reliance on AI tools.
Diction. Diction is the choice and use of words in speech or writing, affecting the clarity and
style of communication (Fowler, 1996).
In this study, diction refers to the students' ability to select appropriate and accurate words in
their writing when assisted by AI tools such as Grammarly or ChatGPT.
Digital Literacy. Digital literacy is the ability to use information and communication
technologies effectively, including skills in finding, evaluating, creating, and communicating
information online (Gilster, 1997).
In the context of this study, digital literacy refers to the STEM students' ability to use AI tools
and other technologies effectively to enhance their English writing accuracy.
English Accuracy. English accuracy is the degree to which language learners use correct
grammar, vocabulary, spelling, and syntax in both spoken and written communication
(Crystal, 2003).
In this study, English accuracy pertains to the correctness of sentence construction, diction,
and spelling in the written outputs of STEM students at BVANHS, as influenced by the use
of AI tools.
Learning Outcomes. Learning outcomes are the measurable knowledge, skills, attitudes, and
competencies that students are expected to acquire as a result of a learning process (Biggs &
Tang, 2011).
For this research, learning outcomes refer to the improvements in English accuracy (sentence
construction, diction, spelling) among STEM students as influenced by their use of AI tools.
Plagiarism Detection. Plagiarism detection refers to the use of software tools to identify
instances where a text has been copied from another source without proper attribution (Zhu et
al., 2020).
In this research, Turnitin is highlighted as an AI tool that checks students' English writing for
plagiarism, ensuring that their submissions are original.
Spelling. Spelling is the process or activity of writing or naming the letters of a word in the
correct sequence (Crystal, 2003).
Spelling in this study refers to the accuracy with which students write words correctly, with
the assistance of AI tools during their English writing tasks.
Student Engagement. Student engagement refers to the degree of attention, curiosity, and
interest that students show in their learning activities, which affects their motivation and
achievement (Fredricks et al., 2004).
In this research, student engagement refers to how the use of AI tools increases students’
interest and involvement in improving their English language skills
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