Perception and Impact of AI on Education Journey of Medical Students and Interns in Western Region, KSA: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background and objectives: The objective of this cross-sectional study is to investigate medical students' and interns' perspectives on AI and the influence that AI has on medical education in the western region of Saudi Arabia. The objectives include determining the awareness of medical students, the various uses of AI in medical education, and recognizing both the positive and negative effects on educational settings.

Materials and methods: This is a cross-sectional study, using a validated online questionnaire that was distributed to undergraduate medical students as well as medical interns.

Results: A total of 375 medical students and interns have filled out the surveys. We found that the majority of participants, specifically 346 individuals (92.3%), were acquainted with the notion, whereas only 29 participants (7.7%) had no understanding of it. A substantial number of participants, 153 (40.8%), indicated favorable opinions regarding the impact of AI on their educational experience, while 158 (42.1%) were unfavorable, and 64 (17.1%) remained neutral. However, 125 individuals (33.3%) disagreed with the assertion on that "I believe AI can have a negative impact on medical education," while the majority 129 (34.4%) remained neutral, and 121 (32.3%) expressed a positive opinion. When queried about the potential impact of AI on regular clinical practice in the future, a majority of 217 individuals (57.9%) expressed agreement. By comparison, a total of 142 participants, accounting for 37.9% of the sample, indicated uncertainty, while a mere 16 participants held the belief that AI will not have a significant impact in the future.

Conclusions: These findings can assist educational institutions and policymakers in adapting curricula and resources to maximize the benefits of AI in medical education while addressing any potential concerns that may arise as a result of its use.