Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Special Issue on CALL Number 11. July 2025 Pp. 43-64

Reimaging Argumentative Writing: Innovative Approaches with Digital Tools

Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU),

English Language Institute, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Corresponding Author: tkjasir@uqu.edu.sa

Abstract:

This research compares the effectiveness of digital writing tools (DWT) and traditional paper-based writing (PBW) in optimizing argumentative writing abilities for secondary students. Eighty-five secondary students (ages 17–19) participated in this quasi-experimental, mixed-methods study, which divided them into three groups: a control group (n = 28) and two experimental groups (n = 31 and n = 26). Writing skills assessments administered before and after the experiment showed that the experimental groups developed significantly, with a mean score increase of 16.6% for group 1 and 18.7% for group 2, which proves that DWT achieves better argumentative writing skills in students. Research showed less conclusive findings regarding the relationship between DWT and PBW because students demonstrated different styles of skill development. The research results demonstrate how digital tools can transform argumentative writing instruction while providing original insights about DWT and PBW effects in Saudi Arabian educational settings. Educational practices need to integrate digital tools; in particular, educators should adopt scaffolded digital feedback cycles and training in AI-supported editing tools to motivate students with essential writing competencies to succeed in academic and professional fields.

Cite as:

Alqarawi, R., & Aljasir, T. (2025). Reimaging Argumentative Writing: Innovative Approaches with Digital Tools. Arab World English Journal (AWEJ) Special Issue on CALL (11):43-64

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Rawan A. Al-Qarawi received her Ph.D. degree in Educational Technology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom, in 2023. She also holds an M.Sc. in Educational Research, University of Exeter (2019) and an MA in Digital Technologies, Communication, and Education, the University of Manchester (2014). She is currently an Assistant Professor at Al Imam University. Her research interests focus on higher education development, digital learning environments, and strategic planning for academic institutions.
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2824-4157 

Tamim K. Aljasir is Assistant Professor at the English Language Centre at Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia. He holds a Ph.D. in TESOL and English for Specific Purposes from King’s College London, United Kingdom (2021) and master’s degree in Digital Technologies, Communication, and Education, the University of Manchester, United Kingdom (2013), His expertise includes include Language learning motivation, Artificial Intelligence in language learning, computational linguistics, and TESOL and ESP teaching and learning. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-5322-5980