They May Have Seen My ChatGPT Tab: Exploring Social Perceptions of AI-Assisted Writing for ESL Students

Many English as a Second Language (ESL) students have begun to use generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools to improve their writing artifacts. In this process, however, ESL students are also facing scrutiny due to the social expectation of independent language acquisition. Therefore, we propose a study design consisting of diary studies and interviews to investigate the ways ESL students perceive and navigate the nuanced social dynamics around using generative AI in their writing. Through this study, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the social-technical implication of AI usage in second language acquisition, and to offer suggestions to ESL learners and educators on ways to incorporate AI into their educational journey.