Artificial intelligence as a collaborative tool for script development

Abstract

In early 2023, as the release of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT became more widespread, concerns arose in the higher education sector regarding how students might use generative AI (gen-AI), not only for writing critical essays, but for producing creative works. Multiple gen-AI tools appeared specifically targeting the application to writing screenplays. This prompted the question: what are the ethical and pedagogical implications of integrating gen-AI within the context of teaching and learning screenwriting within the academy? The research design for this project applied a practice-based approach to script development, embedding critical reflection on the iterative process of engaging with gen-AI to write a short screenplay. The gen-AI was also prompted to self-critique the story it generated. The research identified ethical concerns regarding equitable access to technology, the potential for bias and theft of works used to train the AI. The study also found that engaging with gen-AI privileged analytical thinking over emotional engagement with the creative process. The findings suggest that creative confidence and an awareness of one’s own creative process are critical to effectively engage with gen-AI.