Enhanced Learning with Artificial Intelligence: A Comparative Study in Medical Students

Introduction: AI tools can aid most of the processes in higher education, providing immediate and personalized feedback, improve research and innovation strategies, preparing our students for the future job market, by strengthening both disciplinary and soft competencies. Healthcare professionals require training in critical thinking as it drives most of the decisions made in patient care. The objective of this study was to compare the acquisition of theoretical knowledge, the development of critical thinking and student engagement before and after the use of a generative artificial intelligence tool. Methodology: Cross-sectional, mixed, quasi-experimental comparative study design. We used theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, and involvement questionnaires before and after the use of the Noodle Factory AI tool. We used Noodle Factory AI tool for learning activities in a 5-week period. The IA tool provided immediate personalized feedback for each student. Results: Both Vigor and Absorption domains in the Engagement and theoretical knowledge questionnaires provided significant differences after the use of the AI tools. Critical thinking did not show significant change, possibly due to the short period of the study. Conclusion: We obtained significant differences in the 5-week period of AI tool use, which shows the advantage of including these tools. The transformative shift towards efficient administration of courses, enhanced personalized learning and strengthened research skills.