Public Health Students and Instructors Weigh in on Generative Artificial Intelligence: Are They on the Same Page?

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (genAI) technology is used among students, yet it remains unclear how public health students and instructors perceive it to be effective in a learning environment. We described how and why public health students and instructors are using genAI technology along with their perceived benefits and limitations of using genAI, noting where perceptions overlap. We surveyed public health students and instructors at a higher education institution in the United States. Student survey questions covered which genAI technologies they used, which activities they used genAI for, and perceived benefits and limitations of using genAI. Questions for instructors covered which genAI technology they used, course activities genAI was integrated, and perceived benefits and limitations of using genAI. Student respondents (n = 300) indicated using genAI technology for writing or clarifying concepts. Students and instructors (n = 62) agreed genAI technology could save time on tedious tasks and will be part of our future workforce. They agreed that appropriate use in the classroom will better prepare future professionals. Alternatively, students and instructors indicated genAI may impede learning, produce inaccurate information, and pose opportunities for unethical behavior. While students and instructors agree on many aspects of genAI technology, instructors should be explicit about their expectations and rationale for use of genAI technology in classrooms.