AI-based MBBS epidemiology course assistant tests a Socratic agent for learning and critical thinking
Official title: Research and Application of an AI Agent-Based MBBS Course Assistant
Run by The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine · NCT07752160 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A computer-based AI teaching assistant is being tested with MBBS students to see if it improves epidemiology learning, reasoning, and practical skills.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 16 Years to 25 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Yiwu, Zhejiang) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | January 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 7, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07752160 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are MBBS students enrolled at Zhejiang University’s Belt and Road International Medical School who consent to participate.
✕Probably not a fit
Participants who do not engage with the AI tool or whose course needs are not met may not experience a measurable benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study uses a quasi-experimental design with at least 60 MBBS students randomized into two groups to compare an AI-driven Socratic agent and a general large language model approach. Before the experiment, researchers conducted semi-structured interviews to gather feedback on usability, feedback quality, and cognitive load. The trial aims to measure learning outcomes, reasoning processes, and instructional effectiveness, guided by learning science and cognitive load theory. The lead site is Zhejiang University’s International Medical School in Yiwu, with the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine as the sponsor.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, students may experience clearer guidance and improved understanding of epidemiology through an interactive AI tutor.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work with AI-based tutors has shown promise in improving learning processes, though results vary by context and task.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 1: The undergraduate students of the "Belt and Road Initiative" International Medical School of Zhejiang University who have officially registered for the MBBS program * 2: Voluntary signing of the informed consent form Exclusion Criteria: * 1: Having severe mental illnesses (such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, acute phase of schizophrenia), serious physical diseases or cognitive impairments * 2: Is currently participating in other studies that may affect the outcome indicators of this research * 3: Have systematically studied or participated in research that is highly similar to this study * 4: No experience of AI agent learning
Where it's running
-
Zhejiang University International School of Medicine
Yiwu, Zhejiang, China Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Yibo Wu
- Email: wuyiboism@zju.edu.cn
- Phone: 0579-89935056
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.