The next generation of nurse educators is using AI to learn and teach

The use of generative AI to support role-playing learning scenarios is unfolding across ASU For the past year, a team of faculty members at Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation have been working to help their students develop AI-generated simulations that facilitate patient-provider engagements.

Students were introduced to a custom GPT that helps them draft simulation storyboards. “By using ChatGPT, students can develop the storyboard of a simulated patient-provider experience in minutes rather than hours,” Margaret Calacci explained.

The AI provides basic patient details such as names, demographics, and personal history helping students outline essential elements of clinical encounters.

However, finalizing the storyboard requires human expertise. “Even though AI tools are designed to elevate your initiatives and launch your students’ work, students must apply their clinical and professional expertise to assess the appropriateness of the tool's output,” said Karen Saewert, a clinical professor

Indeed, the AI-generated script undergoes multiple reviews to ensure it meets current medical practice and professional standards.

Another focal point is “prompt engineering,” the iterative dialogue between students and AI. Morris observed that although some students were initially skeptical about using AI, they soon recognized how it expands their thinking and creativity

To date, 11 students crafted storyboard ideas using the custom GPT.

Ultimately, the plan is to bring at least one of these AI-generated simulations into a lab setting. This initiative underscores how advanced tools can enrich nursing education - without replacing the essential human insight that underpins quality care.

Written by Annie Davis.