ChatCOP: How AI Is Transforming Pharmacy Education

University of Kentucky News (12/09/24) Mejia-Cruz, Rosa

At the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy (UKCOP), instructors are using artificial intelligence (AI) to increase student engagement and improve the learning experience. For several classes, AI is helping student pharmacists with complex problem-solving and clinical reasoning skills. When used appropriately, said Jeff Cain, EdD, vice chair in the Department of Pharmacy Practice & Science, AI "allows us to create dynamic, real-time learning environments where students can interact, explore topics more deeply, ask nuanced questions, and receive immediate feedback. This opens new teaching and learning possibilities that we haven't had before." AI enables Cain's students to practice and receive real-time feedback on sensitive topics involving conflict management and employee discipline, and there's also a virtual tutor and a program to create brief, AI-generated podcasts to summarize course material. Other instructors are using AI as a virtual patient or healthcare provider to improve students' clinical reasoning skills when dealing with complex patient problems. With AI-driven simulations, students are able to work on their communication skills and treatment approaches. Meanwhile, AI is also changing how faculty approach course development and assessment, simplifying administrative tasks while allowing them to focus on other aspects of teaching, such as student mentorship, providing descriptive feedback, and curriculum creation.

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