Researchers from the University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies and the Center for Educational and Instructional Technology Research presented new findings on artificial intelligence in education and healthcare workforce preparation at the Association for Educational Communications and Technology 2026 Online Conference, held March 11-12.
The presentations addressed how higher education can prepare future healthcare professionals to work with artificial intelligence technologies, a topic that is gaining importance as AI becomes more integrated into clinical and administrative environments. The research contributes to ongoing discussions about AI literacy, human-AI collaboration, and curriculum design aligned with workforce needs.
Key insights included a framework for distributing cognitive tasks between humans and AI systems using Bloom’s Taxonomy, strategies for integrating generative AI into complex learning settings, and recommendations for teaching AI competencies in healthcare administration programs. “The AECT conference brings together leading scholars advancing research in learning technologies,” said Mansureh Kebritchi, Ph.D., director of CEITR and professor in the College of Doctoral Studies. “Sharing our research in this forum helps expand evidence-based understanding of how artificial intelligence can augment human learning and prepare professionals to responsibly use AI in their fields.”
One session explored how human cognition and artificial intelligence systems can collaborate effectively when solving complex problems. The team used Bloom’s Taxonomy to analyze knowledge-processing responsibilities between learners and AI tools, suggesting that clearer frameworks could support responsible integration of AI across educational and professional settings.
Another presentation examined how higher education programs can equip healthcare professionals with skills needed for AI-enabled workplaces. The study found that curricula must evolve so graduates are prepared for decision-making, data analytics, and digital health technologies involving artificial intelligence.
According to the official website, the University of Phoenix works to address barriers to education for underserved communities. The university features a physical campus in Phoenix along with online delivery options nationwide. It offers more than 100 career-focused programs linked to over 300 professions, aiming to provide higher education that equips students with skills for career advancement, organizational enhancement, and community leadership according to the official website. The institution holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission according to its official website.
The AECT International Convention brings together educators, instructional designers, and researchers worldwide to share research related to educational communications, instructional technology, and learning science.
