1- Medical-Surgical Nursing Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran(Corresponding Author) , golnarghane@gmail.com
2- Medical-Surgical Nursing Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2- Medical-Surgical Nursing Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Abstract: (71 Views)
Dear Editor,
Following the outbreak of COVID-19 in December 2019 and the declaration of a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020, many activities, including in-person education, were suspended, and universities transitioned to online learning platforms. During this period, artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as a transformative tool in medical education, providing innovative solutions to overcome the limitations imposed by the pandemic (1, 2).
The term "Artificial intelligence," first coined by John McCarthy in 1955, refers to machine systems exhibiting intelligent behaviors such as perception, reasoning, learning, communication, and the ability to perform human-like tasks. AI functions are generally categorized into three main paradigms: symbolic (logic-based and knowledge-based), statistical (including probabilistic methods and machine learning), and sub-symbolic (such as embodied intelligence and search) (3).
Artificial intelligence has addressed numerous challenges in education, including natural language processing, reasoning, planning, cognitive modeling, virtual inquiry systems, remote medical management, and the recording of educational content in medical schools. Moreover, AI has played a critical role in enhancing the online learning experience. AI-based virtual simulations and educational platforms provide medical students with realistic scenarios and interactive learning modules, thereby improving their clinical reasoning and decision-making skills (4).
Conversely, traditional assessment methods for medical students, such as in-person exams and practical evaluations, encountered challenges during the pandemic. To address this, AI-powered remote assessment tools were introduced to ensure fair and accurate evaluations. These tools can monitor students during online examinations, detect cheating, and even assess clinical skills through virtual simulations (5). Another important aspect of AI integration in medical education is the provision of real-time feedback and assessment, enabling continuous monitoring of progress, identification of weaknesses, and enhancement of student performance (6).
By analyzing learning patterns, AI facilitates personalized education by identifying students' strengths and weaknesses and specifying educational needs. This technology also enables instructors to tailor educational content to individual learner requirements (7, 8).
It is undeniable that the pandemic has also impacted the mental health of students and healthcare professionals. In this context, AI-based mental health programs and chatbots have served as confidential and accessible resources to reduce stress and combat burnout (9, 10).
Given the significant role of AI in facilitating personalized education, remote assessment, and mental health support during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is recommended that healthcare authorities promote the expansion of intelligent educational platforms, the use of AI-based assessment tools, and the development of digital mental health services to ensure sustainable and effective utilization of this technology for enhancing the quality of medical education.
Following the outbreak of COVID-19 in December 2019 and the declaration of a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020, many activities, including in-person education, were suspended, and universities transitioned to online learning platforms. During this period, artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as a transformative tool in medical education, providing innovative solutions to overcome the limitations imposed by the pandemic (1, 2).
The term "Artificial intelligence," first coined by John McCarthy in 1955, refers to machine systems exhibiting intelligent behaviors such as perception, reasoning, learning, communication, and the ability to perform human-like tasks. AI functions are generally categorized into three main paradigms: symbolic (logic-based and knowledge-based), statistical (including probabilistic methods and machine learning), and sub-symbolic (such as embodied intelligence and search) (3).
Artificial intelligence has addressed numerous challenges in education, including natural language processing, reasoning, planning, cognitive modeling, virtual inquiry systems, remote medical management, and the recording of educational content in medical schools. Moreover, AI has played a critical role in enhancing the online learning experience. AI-based virtual simulations and educational platforms provide medical students with realistic scenarios and interactive learning modules, thereby improving their clinical reasoning and decision-making skills (4).
Conversely, traditional assessment methods for medical students, such as in-person exams and practical evaluations, encountered challenges during the pandemic. To address this, AI-powered remote assessment tools were introduced to ensure fair and accurate evaluations. These tools can monitor students during online examinations, detect cheating, and even assess clinical skills through virtual simulations (5). Another important aspect of AI integration in medical education is the provision of real-time feedback and assessment, enabling continuous monitoring of progress, identification of weaknesses, and enhancement of student performance (6).
By analyzing learning patterns, AI facilitates personalized education by identifying students' strengths and weaknesses and specifying educational needs. This technology also enables instructors to tailor educational content to individual learner requirements (7, 8).
It is undeniable that the pandemic has also impacted the mental health of students and healthcare professionals. In this context, AI-based mental health programs and chatbots have served as confidential and accessible resources to reduce stress and combat burnout (9, 10).
Given the significant role of AI in facilitating personalized education, remote assessment, and mental health support during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is recommended that healthcare authorities promote the expansion of intelligent educational platforms, the use of AI-based assessment tools, and the development of digital mental health services to ensure sustainable and effective utilization of this technology for enhancing the quality of medical education.
Type of Study: Letter to editor |
Subject:
آموزش علوم پزشکی
Send email to the article author
| Rights and permissions | |
 |
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. |
Contact Information
Address: Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Deputy of Research and Technology,Djahad Ave.,
Urmia-5714783734, IRAN
P.O. Box: 1138,
Tel: 044 - 331937224
Fax: 044 - 32240642
E-Mail:
j.nur.mid
gmail.com, unmfumsu.ac.ir