The Impact of AI Technology and Academic Integrity in Healthcare Education
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Authors
Lea, Michelle
Issue Date
2026-04-17
Type
Other
Language
en_US
Keywords
Artificial intelligence , Healthcare education , Physician assistant
Alternative Title
Abstract
The development of artificial intelligence (AI) policies has become a central priority in higher education. This study presents key objectives and findings from both student and faculty perspectives on the use of AI technology, with a focus on balancing academic integrity and advancing technological capabilities. Specifically, the research evaluates healthcare educators’ ability to recognize AI-generated student assignments, examines the accuracy of AI detection tools, and explores whether student reliance on AI reflects gaps in subject knowledge or proficiency. This cross-sectional pilot study analyzed quantitative data from surveys and Likert scale responses collected in 2024 from physician assistant (PA) students and faculty. Faculty participants were asked to evaluate healthcare education essays and estimate the extent of AI use in their creation. The same essays were also assessed by four publicly available AI detection tools. Results showed no statistically significant differences in topic proficiency between AI- and non-AI-generated essays. Faculty were unable to reliably identify AI-generated content, whereas detection tools consistently outperformed them. Although limited by a small sample size, the findings suggest that the use of AI technology does not necessarily indicate a deficiency in subject knowledge. These insights can help inform assessment strategies that address concerns about AI use without discouraging appropriate engagement with technology.
Description
UB Rise 2026
Physician Assistant Institute