Impact of ChatGPT on the critical thinking skills of dental students: A randomized controlled trial.

As AI technologies like ChatGPT become increasingly prevalent in educational settings, it is essential to evaluate their impact on students’ critical thinking abilities. There is a concern that excessive reliance on AI tools may hinder cognitive engagement and independent thinking. This research aims to assess the influence of ChatGPT on students’ critical thinking, shedding light on the potential effects of AI on this essential skill.

ALTERNATE HYPOTHESIS:

There is a difference between the impact of ChatGPT on the critical thinking skills of dental students.

AIM OF THE STUDY:

To assess and compare the impact of ChatGPT on the critical thinking skills of dental students.

OBJECTIVES:

To measure the baseline and post intervention level of critical thinking skills among dental students in the experimental and control groups.

To assess and compare critical thinking assignments in the experimental and control group based on standard grading criteria.

STUDY PHASES:

Phase I: Training and Calibration:

Training and calibration of the investigator will be done. Assignments in each domain of critical thinking will be peer-reviewed and evaluated by experts. A proper grading scale will be allocated. A pilot study will be conducted on 10 subjects to determine the feasibility of the research or make any amendments to the research protocol, assignment design, assessment tools, or data collection methods.

Phase II: Baseline assessment and randomization

A standardized test of critical thinking skills will be administered to all students at baseline. Randomization will be done and students will be assigned to either the experimental or control group.

Phase III: Intervention

Critical thinking assignments are given to both groups based on 5 domains: Problem-Solving; Analysis and Evaluation; Creativity and Innovation; Reflection and Metacognition; Inference and Interpretation

In the experimental group, students will receive instruction on the functionalities and applications of ChatGPT. The critical thinking assignments will involve the utilization of ChatGPT as a resource and aid in completing the tasks. In contrast, the control group will engage in the same assignments but without access to ChatGPT.

Phase IV: Final assessment

Critical thinking skills test will be taken for all students at the end of the intervention.

EXPECTED OUTCOME

It is anticipated that the study will reveal valuable insights into whether the use of AI tools like ChatGPT enhances, diminishes, or has no significant effect on critical thinking abilities among dental students. These findings will guide educators and policymakers on the appropriate integration of AI technology in educational settings, ensuring informed and evidence-based decision-making.