Pearson augments nursing content with generative AI study tools to improve nursing education and address shortages
Pearson announced the integration of AI study tools into its Nursing: A Concept-Based Approach to Learning series, aiming to improve nursing education and address workforce shortages. These tools provide personalized support, including guided help with homework, summaries, and practice problems. The integration is set to be available by Fall 2024 in Pearson+ eTextbook and MyLab Nursing course. This move addresses the significant need for more nurses and nurse educators as highlighted by the National Academy of Medicine. A recent survey found 75% of students found the AI tools helpful. Pearson plans further AI integration across various subjects by August 2024.
- Integration of AI tools into Pearson's nursing curriculum enhances personalized learning.
- Launch of AI tools in Pearson+ eTextbook and MyLab Nursing by Fall 2024.
- 75% of students found AI study tools helpful.
- AI tools available in more than 30 Pearson Mastering titles, expanding to over 40 titles by August 2024.
- Support for addressing nursing workforce shortages in the US.
- The implementation of AI tools may not fully address the immediate need for nurse educators.
- The effectiveness of AI tools in real-world clinical scenarios remains to be fully validated.
Insights
The integration of AI study tools into Pearson's nursing curriculum marks a notable advancement in educational technology. By leveraging generative AI, Pearson aims to provide personalized learning experiences that can address the specific needs of nursing students. This can lead to more effective study habits and better prepared nursing graduates, potentially easing the current nursing shortages the US is facing.
From a financial perspective, this move could enhance Pearson's market position, particularly in the educational sector. The AI tools are expected to be integrated into several platforms by Fall 2024, which could boost
However, Pearson must ensure the responsible application of AI to avoid potential pitfalls such as algorithmic biases or privacy concerns. Given the sensitive nature of educational data, stringent measures should be in place to maintain trust among users and stakeholders.
The inclusion of AI tools in nursing education could positively impact the healthcare sector by addressing the critical shortage of nurses and nurse educators. By enhancing the efficiency of nursing education through AI, more students might be able to complete their training successfully and enter the workforce. This aligns well with the National Academy of Medicine's recommendations to bolster the nursing workforce to cater to an aging population.
Furthermore, the concept-based curriculum, enhanced with AI, can improve clinical reasoning skills, providing a robust foundation for future nurses to handle diverse patient populations and healthcare settings. This holistic approach not only prepares students for immediate challenges but also equips them with the adaptability required in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.
However, it's important to monitor the long-term effects of AI tools on nursing education to ensure they truly enhance learning outcomes without inadvertently creating dependencies or reducing critical thinking skills.
Pearson's AI study tools combine the power of generative AI technology with trusted Pearson content to provide scaffolded, guided help when students are stuck on homework problems, and personalized explanations, summaries, and practice problems for more efficient studying.
"Integrating AI study tools into our concept-based nursing series enhances the learning experience, giving nursing students and nurse educators the resources they need to efficiently study and master course concepts," said Anne Fahlgren, GM of Pearson's professional portfolio. "This technology will help more nursing candidates prepare for and enter the workforce, while also giving nurse educators the means to scale their teaching further, addressing major challenges in nursing education and society."
The AI study tools beta will be available both in Pearson+ eTextbook and the accompanying MyLab Nursing course in time for Fall 2024. MyLab is an interactive teaching and learning platform, backed by content from Pearson authors. The platform, with integrated eTextbook, allows instructors to design their course, assign homework and assessments, and monitor student progress in real time.
The US is experiencing shortages of nurses and nurse educators. The National Academy of Medicine's 2021 report on The Future of Nursing: 2020-2030 notes that, in order to provide sufficient care for an aging population over the next decade, a substantial increase in the nursing workforce will be needed that can practice "in community-based settings with diverse populations that face a variety of lived experiences." The NAM's report also references hundreds of nursing faculty position vacancies that have contributed to tens of thousands of qualified applicants being turned away from nursing school admission due to the inability to adequately meet student demand.
Concept-based nursing curriculum is designed to focus on key concepts emphasizing a holistic understanding of nursing principles that can be applied across different patient populations, healthcare settings, and situations. This approach strengthens clinical reasoning skills in the course of patient care. Incorporating generative AI tools into Pearson's concept-based nursing content supports nurse educators in scaling their teaching and students' ability to study more efficiently.
Dr. Michelle Aebersold, University of Michigan School of Nursing Clinical Professor and contributor to Nursing: A Concept-Based Approach to Learning, said "Technological advancements like generative AI are transforming the nursing profession. The ability to adapt in a rapidly changing environment is a critical healthcare skill, whether it's in the course of patient care or in preparing our future nurses for the workforce. The ability of the AI study tools to provide a more user-centered, customized experience is a huge benefit for our students. I'm glad they will have access to Pearson's AI tools that accommodate the variety of ways students learn and provide personalized support in the moment students need it most. This is the future of individualized learning."
A Fall 2023 survey of students using Pearson's AI study tools beta showed strong levels of engagement, with
The inclusion of generative AI study tools further solidifies Pearson's dedication to providing the most comprehensive and effective learning and teaching resources for nursing students and nurse educators across the US. Pearson's AI study tools are already available in more than 30 Pearson Mastering titles and are set to be integrated into more than 40 Pearson+ eTextbooks and MyLab and Mastering titles across math, science, business, and nursing for August of 2024.
Pearson is committed to investing in the responsible application of AI to advance product innovation and enhance the learning experience to educate, certify, and credential students and the workforce.
Pearson product experts are available to demo the AI study tools for members of the media. Please request demonstrations with the media contact below.
About Pearson
At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That's why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world's leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn't just what we do. It's who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.
Media contact
Dan.nelson@pearson.com
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