The Perceptions of Faculty and Students Regarding Artificial Intelligence Usage in Education at an Academic Medical Center

Abstract

Background: The emergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly with platforms like OpenAI, has brought about a paradigm shift in problem-solving and decision-making approaches. One sector that has notably embraced AI is education, where its integration has revolutionized traditional teaching and learning methods. While prior reports have highlighted the opportunities AI presents in education, they also emphasize the associated risks. Despite these concerns, proponents argue that incorporating AI into education could potentially better prepare students for evolving industry demands. Objective: The objective of this study is to explore the perceptions of faculty and students at the University of [blinded] regarding AI usage in education. Methods: The study, approved by the [blinded] Institutional Review Board, employed a mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected through a cross-sectional survey distributed to faculty and students. The survey included questions on demographics and perceptions of AI in education. Participants were also given the option to express interest in follow-up interviews. Interviews were conducted with willing participants to further explore their views on AI in education. Results: The quantitative data revealed that the majority of the faculty and students were aware of and somewhat familiar with AI tools. They generally perceived AI as a beneficial addition to education. However, concerns about AI included potential dependency and the ethical implications of AI-generated content. The follow-up interviews provided deeper insights, with participants expressing optimism about AI's potential to transform education while emphasizing the need for robust ethical guidelines and training to maximize its benefits. Conclusion: The findings suggest a positive perception of AI among both faculty and students at [blinded], highlighting its potential to enhance personalized learning and better prepare students for future industry demands. However, there is a clear need for comprehensive ethical guidelines and training to address concerns about dependency and the ethical use of AI. The study emphasizes the importance of balancing the benefits of AI with the associated risks to ensure its effective and responsible integration into educational practices. Continued research and dialogue are essential to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in education, ultimately aiming to enhance the learning experience and outcomes for students in healthcare education.   Keywords: Artificial intelligence, perceptions, education, survey, interview