Knowledge and Attitude of Ain Shams University Medical Students towards Artificial Intelligence and its Application in Medical Education and Practice

Khater, Aya S.; Zaaqoq, Ayman A.; Wahdan, Maha M.; Ashry, Soha

doi:10.21608/erji.2023.306718

Knowledge and Attitude of Ain Shams University Medical Students towards Artificial Intelligence and its Application in Medical Education and Practice

Document Type : Original research article

Authors

¹ Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.

² Department of Community Medicine, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.

³ Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.

10.21608/erji.2023.306718

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving with the potential to revolutionize various aspects of healthcare. Despite the increasing use of AI in medicine, research on the knowledge and attitudes of medical students towards AI remains limited. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge and attitude towards AI and its use in medical education and future medical practice among Ain Shams University undergraduate medical students. Methods: A Cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: A total of 410 medical students completed the questionnaire. The mean age of participating students was 19.7 ± 1.5, of which 56.1% were females. Students in the first and second years represented 75.3% of the total participating students. Most of the students demonstrated moderate (41.2%) to good (57.7%) knowledge and attitude regarding AI and its application in medical education, and similarly moderate (67.5%) to good (28.9%) knowledge and attitude regarding AI and its application in medical practice. Over 80% of students emphasized the need to integrate teaching about AI in their medical curricula and thought that AI will soon revolutionize education. In addition, over 85% showed enthusiasm to learn about the applications of AI in medicine. Conclusion: The findings from the current study highlight the crucial need for medical schools to adapt to the changing technology and ensure that future physicians are ready for these changes. Medical curricula must evolve to prepare students effectively by providing comprehensive knowledge and understanding of AI and its applications, ensuring students are well-prepared for their future careers.

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