The Perspectives of Deans of Medical Schools on Introducing Artificial Intelligence and Computer Literacy to Medical Curricula in Arab Countries

Digital transformation in higher education has revolutionized the delivery and exchange of knowledge and information between the educator and the students, and has thus led to a major shift in the paradigm of education where the responsibilities and roles have dramatically changed. This transformation has necessitated revisions to the design, implementation, and evaluation of medical curricula by incorporating into them the new scientific discoveries utilizing emerging and novel technologies. In view of this global changing trend in medical education, a survey was conducted to address the pressing challenges facing medical educational institutions in the region. The objectives of this study were twofold: (1) to investigate the perspectives of Arab medical school deans regarding the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Literacy (CL) topics into medical education curricula, and (2) to assess the readiness of Arab medical schools and colleges in implementing AI and CL education within their undergraduate medical curricula. Between June and September 2023, the authors conducted a cross-sectional study among 104 deans of medical schools and colleges in Arab countries, employing a 30-item self-developed questionnaire. Thematic analysis was used to examine the survey responses, and inductive coding of these responses allowed the identification of emerging themes. Two meta-themes surfaced: the benefits of integrating AI and CL into medical education, and the challenges of including AI and CL in medical education. Each meta-theme spanned multiple themes, subthemes, and categories. Three benefits of integrating AI and CL into medical education reflect the tripartite mission of academic medicine: advancements in medical research, breakthroughs in clinical practice, and innovations in medical curricula or medical education. Seven main challenges to integrating AI and CL emerged from this study, categorized as: resource challenges; educational preparedness; dynamic nature of AI; curriculum and coverage constraints; patient care quality and safety; ethical and legal complexities; and governance structure and hierarchical frameworks, and hierarchical challenges. This study highlighted the growing belief among the leadership of medical schools in the Arab countries that integrating AI into medical curricula is inevitable. The perspectives of academic deans vary due to differences in education systems, governance structures, and learning objectives. While recognizing the transformative benefits in medical education, clinical practice, and research, the study emphasizes the need for modifications in medical curricula to accommodate AI and CL topics, without compromising the focus on the medical ones. The potential of AI to revolutionize healthcare is evident, but challenges include limited resources, institutional readiness, ethical dilemmas, and the absence of legal frameworks. Overcoming these challenges requires strategic decision-making, multidisciplinary collaboration, and steps to enhance educational preparedness and awareness among students and faculty. Embracing AI is crucial for the future of medical education and healthcare advancement in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.