Author Prop: Assisting the Creative Process with an Automated Intelligent Cognitive Prop for Writers

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Writing is a complex, metacognitive task which requires planning, execution, and evaluation of anevolving text simultaneously.OBJECTIVES: This paper presents Author Prop, a web application for writing that aims to address the need for “cognitiveprops” during composition. The software particularly targets students, whose relative inexperience may lead to high levelsof cognitive load and low engagement during writing.METHODS: To provide a mental prop to writers, Author Prop provides topic-based decomposition of texts usingintelligent highlighting. Furthermore, the software allows users to interact with topics (described as keyword lists) duringperiods of reflection, with the aim to ease and maintain creative thinking.RESULTS: Of the 78 surveyed users, 42% said they would use the app for writing, and 70% said they enjoyed using theapp.CONCLUSION: Initial survey results from beta testing of the web application indicate encouraging reception of thesoftware.

Keywords

• writing
• motivation
• natural language processing
• intelligent tutoring system
• writing analytics
• education
• ai
• software