Stephanie N. Moore-Lotridge, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Cathy Pettepher, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Neil Osheroff, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Purpose
Medical students amass foundational science knowledge which is then applied and integrated with clinical training. Numerous studies have demonstrated that active learning is highly effective in medical education. Furthermore, active learning can promote teamwork, thereby supporting communication and interpersonal skills essential for healthcare professionals. However, designing active learning strategies can be daunting for facilitators. This study explores how generative artificial intelligence (AI) can assist with developing an escape-game style activity for in-classroom use with 1st year medical students.
Methods
This presentation will include an overview of the processes for developing an in-person escape-game style activity, highlighting where generative AI can assist. During the planning phase, ChatGPT-4 was queried for puzzle design ideas from which the facilitator drew inspiration. To add depth to the activity, ChatGPT-4 was prompted to assist with generating riddles and an overall storyline used during the escape game. DALL-E was used to generate a graphical representation of the storyline.
Results
After approximately 15 hours of development and preparation, a single facilitator was able to successfully implement an in-class escape game-style activity for >80 1st year medical students. This activity focused on the review of biochemistry topics including plasma membranes and cellular signaling. All students completed the activity in under 50 minutes as part of teams of 4-8 students, with limited clarification required from the facilitator. In-person feedback for the activity was largely positive. Elective post-activity feedback from students illustrated a high rating for engagement and overall enjoyment of the activity, specifically highlighting the collaborative nature of the activity.
Conclusion
This study highlights how generative AI can be used to support the successful implementation of an escape-game-style activity for in-classroom use. With the support of generative AI tools, facilitators can more rapidly generate engaging activities, aimed at supporting active learning practices.