Poster Session Harnessing the Power of LLM Prompting: Writer-Centered Approaches to AI-Enhanced EAP Writing more

The rapid advancement of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT has transformed educational practices, particularly in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) instruction. This study explores effective prompt crafting strategies that uphold student agency in LLM-assisted writing. Key research questions address how rhetorical strategies in prompt design can affect the writing process and enhance learning experiences for both novice and professional EAP writers. Conducted in a university-level EAP course, the research involved two student groups: one used LLM-generated prompts designed with rhetorical strategies, while the control group utilized standard prompts. Data were collected through surveys, writing samples, and interviews to evaluate the prompts' effectiveness in fostering critical thinking and creativity. Preliminary results indicate that students using tailored prompts reported increased engagement and confidence, along with a better grasp of genre conventions. This presentation will highlight the implications of writer-centered prompt design, showcasing practical strategies that educators can adopt to improve EAP writers' skills while preserving critical thinking in an increasingly digital landscape.