Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in skills-based pharmacy courses
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46542/pe.2024.241.614620Keywords:
Artificial intelligence, Pharmacy education, Skills-based learningAbstract
Background: Skills-based courses in pharmacy curricula are uniquely poised to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) as part of practical training for practice readiness. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate how pharmacy curricula currently use or plan to use AI within skills-based courses.
Methods: Invitations to complete an anonymous Qualtrics® XM survey were e-mailed to faculty members of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, requiring identification as a skills-based faculty coordinator for participation. The survey remained open for two months with biweekly reminders. It assessed current and potential AI utilisation within curricula and administrative functions. Data was analysed categorically based on responses.
Results: Of the 98 pharmacy skills-based faculty coordinator survey responses submitted, only 18% reported currently utilising AI within courses, most commonly through gamification. Additionally, 15% reported using AI for administrative course tasks. About 60% reported considering AI implementation, usually within the next two years. The most common reasons for not yet implementing AI included a lack of familiarity with AI and its unclear role in pharmacy education.
Conclusion: The reported AI integration in skills-based pharmacy courses and administrative functions is currently low. Although interest seems high, there are barriers to implementing AI, including faculty understanding of the technology and the purpose of its integration into pharmacy education.
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