Shaping the Future of Radiography Education: Lessons From ChatGPT and Generative AI

Area of Science:

• Radiography Education
• Health Professions Education
• Artificial Intelligence in Education

Background:

• Generative artificial intelligence (AI), including large language models like ChatGPT, is increasingly impacting health professions education and continuing professional development (CPD).
• The radiography discipline is uniquely positioned to evaluate the benefits and limitations of these emerging AI technologies in educational contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a narrative review and conceptual synthesis of the emerging evidence on generative AI use in radiography education.
• To explore the application of generative AI in image critique, professional communication training, simulation-based learning, CPD planning, and reflective practice within radiography.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review approach was employed to synthesize fragmented evidence from radiography-specific studies.
• The review integrated educational theory and professional regulation to propose a conceptual framework for responsible AI integration.

Main Results:

• Generative AI can provide structured guidance, support self-assessment, and scaffold learning, bridging academic knowledge with clinical expectations in radiography.
• While AI can identify broad image evaluation issues and aid metacognitive reasoning, it lacks relational nuance in communication training and emotional depth in reflective practice.
• AI-driven simulations show potential for safe experimentation but often lack contextual and professional insight; their educational value is contingent on pedagogical framing, educator oversight, and critical learner engagement.

Conclusions:

• Generative AI in radiography education is best viewed as a pedagogical artifact, with its educational value dependent on careful framing, educator supervision, and active learner critical appraisal.
• Responsible integration requires prioritizing AI literacy, ethical governance, and professional accountability to navigate the adoption of generative AI across the radiography education continuum.