journal article·2026-04-24Open access

Fine-Tuned Prompt Literacy for GenAI-Mediated L2 Writing: An Interaction-First Learning-and-Accountability Framework

Joohoon Kang, Jongsung Won

Applied Sciences· Volume 16· Issue 9

Abstract

Generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping second language (L2) writing not only by altering how learners generate, revise, and refine text but also by changing how writers justify, disclose, and remain accountable for AI-mediated decisions. Yet much prompt-literacy work still treats prompting as output optimization or leaves it under-theorized as a general ability to “use AI well.” This conceptual article addresses that gap by reconceptualizing Fine-Tuned Prompt Literacy (FTPL) as an interaction-first learning-and-accountability framework for GenAI-mediated L2 writing. We argue that prompt literacy should be understood not simply as better prompting, but as the trained ability to set communicative and genre constraints, interrogate provisional AI outputs, corroborate claims, revise prompts and texts iteratively, and document accountable uptake decisions. To clarify FTPL’s theoretical distinctiveness, we position it in relation to AI literacy, critical GenAI literacy, and prompt literacy research, and define four interlocking dimensions—learner empowerment, prompt optimization, critical evaluation, and ethical responsibility. We further operationalize the framework through observable interactional indicators, process evidence, and assessment/accountability implications relevant to instructional and institutional contexts. By reframing prompt literacy as a genre-sensitive and ethically accountable interactional competence, this article offers a conceptual model for studying and designing GenAI-mediated writing beyond product improvement alone.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Second Language Acquisition and Learning · EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning · Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Education

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of English Language and Literature, Korea National University of Transportation, Chungju-si 27469, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea

Department of Architectural Engineering, Korea National University of Transportation, Chungju-si 27469, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea

Funding

Regional Innovation System & Education (RISE) program · Ministry of Education and the Chungbuk-do, Republic of Korea

References (26)

Show source-provided references
1. Digital multimodal composing in L2 classrooms: A research agenda10.1017/S0261444824000107 ↗
2. Jewitt, C., and Kress, G. (2003). Multimodal Literacy, Peter Lang.
3. Using ChatGPT for second language writing: Pitfalls and potentials10.1016/j.asw.2023.100745 ↗
4. Beyond ChatGPT: Multimodal generative AI for L2 writers10.1016/j.jslw.2023.101070 ↗
5. When generative artificial intelligence meets multimodal composition: Rethinking the composition process through an AI-assisted design project10.1016/j.compcom.2024.102883 ↗
6. A systematic review of AI in language education: Current status and future implications10.64152/10125/73606 ↗
7. Artificial Intelligence for Academic Purposes (AIAP): Integrating AI literacy into an EAP module10.1016/j.esp.2024.09.001 ↗
8. Conceptualising and cultivating Critical GAI Literacy in doctoral academic writing10.1016/j.jslw.2024.101156 ↗
9. Generative AI and Its Dilemmas: Exploring AI from a Translanguaging Perspective10.1093/applin/amaf049 ↗
10. Xiao, Y., and Zhi, Y. (2023). An exploratory study of EFL learners’ use of ChatGPT for language learning tasks: Experience and perceptions. Languages, 8.10.3390/languages8030212 ↗
11. Generative AI and second language writing
12. The affordances and contradictions of AI-generated text for writers of English as a second or foreign language10.1016/j.jslw.2023.101071 ↗
13. The need for critical digital literacies in generative AI-mediated L2 writing10.1016/j.jslw.2025.101186 ↗
14. Investigating L2 writers’ critical AI literacy in AI-assisted writing: An APSE model10.1016/j.jslw.2025.101187 ↗
15. Hwang, Y., Lee, J.H., and Shin, D. (2023). What Is Prompt Literacy? An Exploratory Study of Language Learners’ Development of a New Literacy Skill Using Generative AI. arXiv.
16. Korean university students’ prompt literacy training with ChatGPT: Investigating language learning strategies10.15858/engtea.79.3.202409.123 ↗
17. Conceptualizing and operationalizing prompt literacy for English language learners10.1002/jaal.70020 ↗
18. The implementation of ChatGPT-assisted writing instruction in ESL/EFL classrooms
19. ChatGPT in education: A blessing or a curse? A qualitative study exploring early adopters’ utilization and perceptions10.1016/j.chbah.2023.100027 ↗
20. ChatGPT for language teaching and learning10.1177/00336882231162868 ↗
21. Du, J., and Alm, A. (2024). The impact of ChatGPT on English for Academic Purposes (EAP) students’ language learning experience: A self-determination theory perspective. Educ. Sci., 14.10.3390/educsci14070726 ↗
22. Kang, J., and Lee, J. (J. Engl. Acad. Purp., 2026). Developing fine-tuned prompt literacy in EAP: Graduate students’ experiences with customized GPT for academic inquiry, J. Engl. Acad. Purp., accepted.10.2139/ssrn.5298508 ↗
23. Effects of three levels of AI integration on second language academic writing: Evaluating restricted, guided, and free use of ChatGPT10.1016/j.system.2025.103820 ↗
24. A qualitative study of students’ lived experience and perceptions of using ChatGPT: Immediacy, equity and integrity10.1080/10494820.2024.2350655 ↗
25. Generative AI and English language teaching: A global Englishes perspective10.1017/S0267190525100184 ↗
26. Developing language teachers’ professional generative AI competence: An intervention study in an initial language teacher education course10.1016/j.system.2024.103399 ↗