Perceived artificial intelligence readiness in medical and health sciences education: a survey study of students in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

BACKGROUND: As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integral to healthcare, preparing medical and health sciences students to engage with AI technologies is critical. OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the perceived AI readiness of medical and health sciences students in Saudi Arabia, focusing on four domains: cognition, ability, vision, and ethical perspectives, using the Medical Artificial Intelligences Readiness Scale for Medical Students (MAIRS-MS). METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between October and November 2023, targeting students from various universities and medical schools in Saudi Arabia. A total of 1,221 students e-consented to participate. Data were collected via a 20-minute Google Form survey, incorporating a 22-item MAIRS-MS scale. Descriptive and multivariate statistical analyses were performed using Stata version 16.0. Cronbach alpha was calculated to ensure reliability, and least squares linear regression was used to explore relationships between students' demographics and their AI readiness scores. RESULTS: The overall mean AI readiness score was 62 out of 110, indicating a moderate level of readiness. Domain-specific scores revealed generally consistent levels of readiness: cognition (58%, 23.2/40), ability (57%, 22.8/40), vision (54%, 8.1/15) and ethics (57%, 8.5/15). Nearly 44.5% of students believed AI-related courses should be mandatory whereas only 41% reported having such a required course in their program. CONCLUSIONS: Medical and health sciences students in Saudi Arabia demonstrate moderate AI readiness across cognition, ability, vision, and ethics, indicating both a solid foundation and areas for growth. Enhancing AI curricula and emphasizing practical, ethical, and forward-thinking skills can better equip future healthcare professionals for an AI-driven future.

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