Introducing AI-generated cases (AI-cases) & standardized clients (AI-SCs) in communication training for veterinary...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Artificial Intelligence
• Communication Skills Training

Background:

• AI integration in medical fields is advancing, but its use in veterinary education is less explored.
• This study introduces AI-generated cases and AI-standardized clients for veterinary communication skills training.
• The research evaluates student perceptions of AI in veterinary education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess veterinary students' beliefs and perceptions regarding AI in education.
• To explore the application of AI tools in communication skills training for veterinarians.
• To identify potential barriers and facilitators to AI adoption in veterinary learning.

Main Methods:

• A 90-minute communication skills lab was conducted with 237 pre-clinical veterinary students at TTU SVM.
• Students interacted with AI-generated cases and AI-standardized clients developed using ChatGPT-3.5.
• The Calgary Cambridge Guide framework was utilized for practicing communication skills.

Main Results:

• Students acknowledged AI's prevalence in daily life but showed limited familiarity and comfort with its application in veterinary education.
• Upper-year veterinary students exhibited more reluctance towards adopting AI tools, especially for communication training.
• Perceptions varied regarding the utility and integration of AI in developing essential veterinary skills.

Conclusions:

• Veterinary institutions should enhance AI literacy among students.
• Further research is needed to explore AI's role in complementing veterinary education and practice.
• Integrating AI tools can potentially improve communication skills training for future veterinarians.