Beyond "Just" Text

Can an AI-Generated Graphic Novel Enhance the Reading Experience of Non-Native English Readers?

Conference Paper (2025)
Author(s)

A. Vitali (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)

I. Alpizar-Chacon (Universiteit Utrecht)

C. Schneegass (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)

Tilman Dingler (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)

Ioanna Lykourentzou (Universiteit Utrecht)

Research Group
Knowledge and Intelligence Design
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1145/3743049.3743076 Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2025
Language
English
Research Group
Knowledge and Intelligence Design
Pages (from-to)
452-464
Publisher
ACM
ISBN (electronic)
9798400715822
Downloads counter
90
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Abstract

Despite its well-documented benefits, reading literature in a second language remains challenging. Graphic novels, by integrating text and images, effectively support English as a Second language (ESL) readers; however, adapting literary works into this format is resource-intensive and lacks scalability.
To address this, we developed a LangChain-based pipeline that automatically transforms a story into a graphic novel. Through a user study with 76 participants, we investigated (1) how this adaptation influences ESL readers' comprehension and narrative engagement, and (2) readers' perception of AI's role in the creative process. Results showed no significant differences in comprehension or engagement between the AI-generated graphic novel and traditional text. Although 70\% of participants recognized AI involvement, attitudes toward its role as illustrator were generally positive, despite a few cross-domain concerns. This work contributes to the understanding of AI-powered storytelling from a human-centered perspective, identifying key insights for effectively supporting readers through AI-generated visual narratives.