Artificial intelligence: a modern tool for assessing dental students?

Objective: To investigate whether and how dental educators use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop dental student assessments and to investigate their concerns and perceptions of AI in dental student learning.

Methods: A mixed methods study using a live polling tool was used collect data from dental educators relating to 5 key themes: i) demographics, ii) use of AI in assessing dental students, iii) perceived challenges of AI, iv) threats or opportunities with AI and v) the future use of AI in assessing dental students. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed descriptively and thematically, respectively.

Results: 65 international dental educators, 94.4% were aged 30 years and above, participated, including undergraduate (n=29, 70.7%) and postgraduate (n=25, 61.0%) dental school teachers. A small proportion were Heads of School (n=4, 9.8%). 61.9% were not routinely using AI for student assessment. 63% received training support from their university. Most (n=23, 67%) were concerned about students using AI to complete written assessments. Four themes were identified, i) types of assessment, ii) use of technologies, iii) concerns and iv) advantages/disadvantages.

Conclusion: Although dental educators found AI in student assessment useful, most were not routinely using it for this purpose. This could be due to a lack of knowledge, understanding and confidence limiting the adoption of AI in student assessments. There is a need for ongoing education and support in dental schools and universities, for the implementation of AI in dental education.

Clinical significance: AI needs to be effectively harnessed to contribute to a competent, confident and reflective contemporary dental workforce.