Using artificial intelligence platforms to support student learning in physiology

Adv Physiol Educ. 2024 Jun 1;48(2):193-199. doi: 10.1152/advan.00213.2023. Epub 2024 Jan 25.

Abstract

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered language models presents new opportunities and challenges in education. By teaching students how to craft prompts that elicit insightful responses, faculty can scaffold activities where AI acts as a supplemental resource to amplify critical thinking and support student learning. Ongoing dialogue and iteration focused on ethical usage norms can achieve the right balance between emerging technology and foundational skills development. With care and intention, AI-assisted study tactics offer students personalized support while adhering to academic standards. While AI-powered tools provide many positive opportunities, students and faculty need to learn about and use them responsibly and ethically, not as replacements for required thinking and effort. Before implementing these AI tools for studying biology, there are several key things to discuss with students. This article outlines several ways that students can employ these tools to support better learning along with a set of guidelines for all to be wary of when implementing these in an academic setting.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Utilizing of artificial intelligence tools offers a promising new technology to support student learning. This article outlines several ways that students can employ these tools to support better learning along with a set of guidelines for all to be wary of when implementing these in an academic setting.

Keywords: academic integrity; artificial intelligence; exam preparation; learning; studying.

MeSH terms

  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Educational Status
  • Faculty
  • Humans
  • Learning
  • Students*