Large Language Models in Pediatric Education: Current Uses and Future Potential

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence, especially large language models (LLMs), has the potential to affect every level of pediatric education and training. Demonstrating speed and adaptability, LLMs can aid educators, trainees, and practicing pediatricians with tasks such as enhancing curriculum design through the creation of cases, videos, and assessments; creating individualized study plans and providing real-time feedback for trainees; and supporting pediatricians by enhancing information searches, clinic efficiency, and bedside teaching. LLMs can refine patient education materials to address patients’ specific needs. The current versions of LLMs sometimes provide “hallucinations” or incorrect information but are likely to improve. There are ethical concerns related to bias in the output of LLMs, the potential for plagiarism, and the possibility of the overuse of an online tool at the expense of in-person learning. The potential benefits of LLMs in pediatric education can outweigh the potential risks if employed judiciously by content experts who conscientiously review the output. All stakeholders must firmly establish rules and policies to provide rigorous guidance and assure the safe and proper use of this transformative tool in the care of the child. In this article, we outline the history, current uses, and challenges with generative artificial intelligence in pediatrics education. We provide examples of LLM output, including performance on a pediatrics examination guide and the creation of patient care instructions. Future directions to establish a safe and appropriate path for the use of LLMs will be discussed.