The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and the EU AI Act mandate the compulsory delivery of AI competencies, requiring AI operators, including universities, to ensure AI literacy. This study examines the design, implementation, and empirical evaluation of an interdisciplinary AI literacy course, with a specific focus on its application in academic writing. Launched in October 2024, the course has been attended by 638 students, providing a structured and scalable teaching framework. AI competencies were precisely defined in alignment with the EU AI Act, ensuring a methodical approach to AI literacy. The course covers both AI fundamentals and their application in academic writing, equipping students with the necessary knowledge to critically engage with AI tools. A cross-disciplinary teaching scenario was developed and implemented to enable students from all fields of study to integrate AI into their academic work in a meaningful and responsible way. The course emphasizes critical engagement with AI-driven writing tools, fostering a deeper understanding of their capabilities, limitations, and ethical implications.
To assess the effectiveness of this approach, an empirical evaluation is conducted using a survey-based methodology to measure students’ AI literacy progression, understanding of AI fundamentals, engagement with AI tools, and ability to apply them in academic writing and research practices. Preliminary results indicate an increased awareness of AI’s role in academic writing, improved AI competency, and greater confidence in AI-supported research. This study provides valuable empirical insights for universities preparing students for the responsible and effective use of AI in academic and research contexts.

Authors:
Chrysanthi Melanou, Freiburg University of Education; DHBW University, Germany

About the Presenter(s)
Chrysanthi Melanou is a research associate at DHBW and a PhD student at Freiburg University of Education, specializing in AI in Higher Education. She leads research projects and studies on AI chatbots and their didactic integration in academia.

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