About
Torsten Steinhoff is a Professor of Didactics of the German Language at the Department of Germanic Studies, University of Siegen, Faculty of Arts and Humanities. His research and teaching focus on theoretical, methodological, and empirical aspects of language acquisition and instruction from elementary to university levels.
His primary research interests include:
- Writing didactics (Schreibdidaktik)
- Vocabulary didactics (Wortschatzdidaktik)
- Language-specific and disciplinary learning (Sprache im Fach)
- Digital communication and AI in education
- Development of complex learning arrangements (Lernarrangements)
Steinhoff investigates how digital tools like ChatGPT can be integrated into writing instruction, promoting argumentative writing through structured learning tasks. His recent work (2023–2025) analyzes human-AI collaboration in writing, proposing models such as GPT as Ghost, Partner, or Tutor. He emphasizes a post-digital didactic approach, balancing traditional literacy with digital competencies.
His publications reflect a strong trend in digital transformation of writing, multilingual education, and empirical interventions in secondary classrooms. He leads research projects funded by BMBF and MKW NRW, including the "AI Writing Arrangements" project tested in 8th-grade classes.
Scientific contributions and collaborations:
- Co-editor of research handbooks on empirical writing didactics
- Collaborator with scholars like Nicole Marx, Katrin Lehnen, and Joachim Grabowski
- Active contributor to journals such as Didaktik Deutsch, BiSS-Journal, and Waxmann publications
- Hosts a research team at lernarrangements.de
He advises on academic language development, text procedures, and vocabulary transfer across modalities and subjects. His lab develops open educational resources (OER) for digital writing and communication, contributing to platforms like Twillo.
