AI in Healthcare - Northern Ireland Colleges - UK Skills Partnership

Northern Ireland Colleges AI in Healthcare

Northern Ireland Colleges join collaborative global panel discussion on AI in Healthcare and social care.

Global Perspectives on Health and Social Care collaborative discussions with Europe and the U.S. November 19^th and 20^th 2024 hosted online by SPC (St. Petersburg College, Florida, USA in collaboration with Further Education Northern Ireland (NWRC, SWC, NRC, SRC) and University of St. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava, Bulgaria.

The collaborative discussion on the topic of Artificial Intelligence enabled the online audience to hear from and engage with a panel of international experts regarding their views and experience of using AI within their specific fields. The online conference was to offer insightful and transformative discussion on health and social care and the art of using AI to augment a positive environment. What became clear very early in the panel question and answer session was the need for consideration of the language used and the skill set required to utilise AI in a decisive manner. The conversation around the level of digital literacy required/needed and what the perception of AI was amongst users and educators plays a key role in how AI is further employed within the education environment.

Digital literacy emerged as a fundamental component for both potential users and educators when it comes to understanding and utilising AI effectively. There was consensus that AI tools will not be fully embraced unless educators themselves possess the necessary skills and confidence to use these tools, and unless potential users/healthcare practitioners are adequately trained to navigate and harness AI technologies.

As the conversation progressed, panelists stressed that digital literacy is not just about understanding how to use a specific AI tool but about fostering critical thinking regarding the ethical and societal implications of AI, especially in health and social care. This includes awareness of biases, the limits of AI, and the importance of human oversight.

One of the central points highlighted was the importance of using clear and accessible language when discussing AI. The term “Artificial Intelligence” itself can carry different connotations, and for many, it remains a concept that is somewhat abstract or filled with misconceptions. During the discussion, it became evident that the way AI is framed and communicated is crucial for adoption, especially in educational settings.

There was a strong emphasis on demystifying AI by breaking down complex technical jargon and presenting AI in a way that is understandable, approachable, and relatable to various audiences. This is especially true in health and social care, where professionals need to focus on the practical, real-world applications of AI tools without getting bogged down in overly technical details.

The use of technology in health care, including telemedicine, electronic health records, and AI-driven diagnostics, is a major area of interest. Collaborative discussions can help share insights into how Europe and the U.S. are using technology to improve healthcare efficiency and outcomes. The discussion around the different models of healthcare also informed the conversation on how AI could be employed to serve the models in a best practice forum.

Much of the dialogue was around the area of how health and social care are critical areas and the introduction of AI as a possible innovative tool outlined where Europe and the U.S. can collaborate, learn from each other, and work together to improve outcomes. By sharing knowledge, strategies, and innovations, these countries/regions can create a more efficient and equitable healthcare system that benefits all their citizens. How we can focus efforts on the best AI platforms, tools and strategies may help to formulate a collective source where we are all equal partners, and we all reap the benefits from AI driven developments.

For AI to be used decisively in health and social care education, it will require collaborative efforts across academia, industry, and government to ensure that both users and educators are empowered with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Furthermore, shifting perceptions around AI—from fear to opportunity—will be key in harnessing its full potential to augment a positive and innovative learning environment.

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25th February 2025

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