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Using an educator-guided generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tool for developing communication skills in
Angelina Lim1, Emily Stokes2, Li-Ling Yeap3
1Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
Currents in Pharmacy Teaching & Learning
|June 1, 2026
Summary
Generative AI (GenAI) simulations like ATLAS improved pharmacy students' communication skills for Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs). Repeated use of this technology-assisted practice correlated with higher OSCE scores, especially for domestic and female students.
Area of Science:
- Health Professions Education
- Artificial Intelligence in Education
- Communication Skills Training
Background:
- Effective health communication is crucial in pharmacy.
- Pharmacy educators are exploring Generative AI (GenAI) tools to enhance curricula.
- A novel educator-guided GenAI prototype, ATLAS, offers simulated patient interactions with feedback.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of the ATLAS GenAI tool on pharmacy undergraduates' communication skills.
- To assess the correlation between ATLAS usage and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) scores.
- To explore student perceptions of GenAI-powered simulation for communication practice.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental study involving pharmacy undergraduates.
- Students used the ATLAS simulation tool for one month prior to their OSCE.
- Communication score changes were compared between ATLAS users and a control group.
Main Results:
- ATLAS users demonstrated significant improvement in OSCE communication scores (p=0.0045).
- Students using ATLAS three or more times showed greater score increases.
- Domestic and female students experienced the most benefit; students found avatars realistic and practice valuable.
Conclusions:
- Educator-guided GenAI practice with ATLAS correlates with improved OSCE communication scores.
- GenAI simulations can supplement traditional learning, benefiting less confident students.
- Future research should include multi-site randomized trials to confirm findings and assess equity.
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