Using AI to improve surgical skill learning through pauses

Effect of Intelligent Tutor Induced Pausing on Learning Simulated Surgical Skills Among Medical Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional McGill University · NCT06235788

This study tests if taking breaks during AI-assisted surgical training helps medical students learn better by allowing them to reflect on their mistakes.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment129 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMcGill University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Montreal, Quebec)
Trial IDNCT06235788 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of incorporating pauses during AI-assisted surgical training on medical students' learning outcomes. The Intelligent Continuous Expertise Monitoring System (ICEMS) provides verbal feedback to trainees after errors, and this study modifies the approach by adding a pause for reflection. By simulating the mentorship of experienced surgeons, the study aims to enhance the acquisition of surgical skills through improved error assessment and stress reduction. The research is conducted with first and second-year medical students enrolled in Quebec institutions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are first and second-year medical students enrolled in any Quebec institution.

Not a fit: Patients who have previously participated in trials involving the NeuroVR simulator will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the training and competency of future surgeons, leading to improved patient safety and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with AI-assisted surgical training, but this specific approach of incorporating pauses is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* First and second year medical students who are actively enrolled in any Quebec institution who do not meet the exclusion criteria.
* Students actively enrolled in medical school in a preparatory year in any Quebec institution who do not meet the exclusion criteria.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participation in previous trials involving the NeuroVR (CAE Healthcare) simulator

Where this trial is running

Montreal, Quebec

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Surgical EducationArtificial intelligenceIntelligent tutorClinical trialMedical studentsCompetency-based feedbackNeurosurgeryVirtual reality
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.