The Journal of CME (JCME) is delighted to present a Q&A interview with Andrew Crim, Guest Editor of the 2024 Special Collection. Answering our questions about this year’s special collection on AI innovations in lifelong learning: Revolutionising CME and CPD, Andrew shares his perspectives on AI and guidance for prospective authors who wish to contribute to the collection.
Andrew is Director of Education and Professional Development at the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. He is an experienced and successful continuing education professional, grant writer, instructional designer, conference planner and executive in healthcare with a special interest in AI in CPD.
1. Firstly, as invited guest editor of the JCME 2024 Special Collection, can you tell us a bit more about yourself and your editorial team?
I think what’s most important to know is that we are all forward thinkers and recognise the potential good and bad that can result from generative AI. We bring diverse backgrounds in medical education, research and a keen interest in the intersection of technology and healthcare. Together, we are dedicated to exploring how advancements in AI can enhance medical education while being mindful of ethical considerations and potential risks. Our goal is to provide a balanced and insightful perspective on the evolving landscape of medical education in the era of AI.
2. What attracted you to the role of guest editor for JCME?
I’ve been involved in continuing education in the health professions for about 30 years and I’m always interested in newer technologies. When generative AI emerged publicly 18 months ago, I immediately was interested and immersed myself into any source I could find that explained, explored and showed ways to expand on its use. What was missing was anything directly related to what I did daily, however. There were articles and videos about undergrad and medical education but nothing related to CPD. When the JCME opportunity presented itself, I immediately saw it as a way to bridge that gap.
3. This year the special collection focuses on ‘AI innovations in lifelong learning: Revolutionising CME and CPD’; why did you choose this topic?
Choosing 'AI innovations in lifelong learning: Revolutionising CME and CPD' as the focus for this year's special collection was a natural step. The advancements in AI offer incredible potential to transform how healthcare professionals engage in lifelong learning. AI can personalise learning experiences, provide real-time feedback, and analyse vast amounts of data to enhance both CME and CPD. It can also create efficiencies for the planners and faculty. By highlighting these innovations, we hope to demonstrate how AI can support continuous learning, improve patient care and help healthcare professionals stay current in an ever-evolving field. This special collection is an opportunity to explore and share cutting-edge research, practical applications and insights that will shape the future of medical education.
4. Who should submit a manuscript? Are you hoping for good stakeholder representation?
We are looking for papers that are directly related to CME/CPD or projects that were conducted in other areas and are relevant. Anyone in CPD should consider submitting, including leaders, planners, faculty, writers, analysts, supporters and associations. We welcome the opportunity to learn from those in other educational fields, including primary, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral. We are specifically looking for pieces that are practical, explore different areas of the planning cycle and have relevance for the diverse professionals in our field.
5. How can authors get advice on their work? Can they get in touch with the editorial team to discuss their work before submitting to the special collection, and if so, what’s the best way to do this?
The guest editorial team and I are happy to discuss a submission idea. While we can’t provide specific feedback prior to editorial review, we can let anyone know if a topic is of interest and if there are narrowed points that should be considered.
6. What types of manuscript will you be accepting?
We are accepting research articles (up to 4,000 words), review and systematic review articles (up to 4,000 words), brief reports (up to 2,500 words) and comments (up to 1,000 words).
7. Are there fees for submitting different types of articles?
Yes, as JCME is an open access journal, there is an article processing charge for each article type. Waivers and discounts are also available, especially for authors from Low and Low-Middle income countries. More information on article publishing charges and waivers/discounts can be found on the JCME website.
8. When is the deadline for submissions and when will this year’s special collection be published?
The deadline for submission is 31 July 2024, with articles being processed and published as they are accepted.
9. Will you be at 17ECF in November to discuss the 2024 Special Collection in more detail?
Yes, I’m planning on being in Madrid for the 17ECF.
10. Finally, what do you hope to achieve with this special collection?
With this special collection, we hope to spark a meaningful dialogue in our community about the potential of AI to revolutionise CME and CPD. By showcasing innovative research and practical applications, we hope to inspire educators and healthcare professionals to embrace AI as a tool for enhancing lifelong learning and normalise its use as an important tool when used responsibly and ethically. Additionally, we want this collection to serve as a resource that addresses both the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating AI into what we do daily. Ultimately, we want to foster a deeper understanding of how AI can improve learning outcomes, support personalised education pathways, and contribute to better patient care.
11. Do you have anything else you would like to add?
Yes, I would like to emphasise the importance of collaboration and open-mindedness as we navigate this exciting era of technological advancement in medical education. The potential benefits of AI are immense but it is crucial that we approach its integration thoughtfully, considering ethical implications and ensuring that it complements the human elements of teaching and learning. I encourage all stakeholders, from educators to healthcare practitioners, to engage with this special collection, share their insights, and contribute to the ongoing conversation. Together, we can harness the power of AI to advance medical education and ultimately improve health outcomes for patients around the world.
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