Exploring the Opportunities and Threats of Artificial Intelligence in Nursing Education: A Two-Part Series

In the rapidly evolving field of nursing education, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent. The second part of a two-part series on the use of AI in nursing education explores the opportunities and threats associated with this new technology.

AI is revolutionizing the way nursing educators teach clinical knowledge and skills to students. Tools like ChatGPT, a popular generative AI chatbot, are being used to enhance collaborative problem-solving and decision-making among students. Additionally, AI-based personal tutors can provide feedback on student progress and help develop essential skills like critical thinking and language acquisition.

However, along with the opportunities presented by AI in nursing education, there are also significant threats that need to be addressed. Privacy, security, and copyright concerns arise when using AI tools that rely on large datasets and sensitive information. Digital inequity is a pressing issue, as some students may not have equal access to AI tools, potentially widening existing disparities.

Moreover, the potential for bias, inaccuracies, and dehumanization in AI-generated content poses risks to academic integrity and patient care. Educators must ensure that students are equipped to critically evaluate AI-generated information and understand the ethical implications of using these tools.

As the use of AI in nursing education continues to grow, it is essential for educators to adapt and incorporate these technologies into their teaching practices. By providing students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the opportunities and threats of AI, nursing education can prepare future nurses to thrive in a digital healthcare landscape.