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Bridging borders, bridging barriers: Artificial intelligence for dental education

Schönwetter, Dieter J., MacDonald, Laura L., Reynolds, Patricia A., Eaton, Kenneth A. (2026) Bridging borders, bridging barriers: Artificial intelligence for dental education. European Journal of Dental Education, . ISSN 1600-0579. (doi:10.1111/eje.70141) (KAR id:113553)

Abstract

The rapid convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), and Assistive Technologies (AT) is transforming education, especially its accessibility and inclusivity. This commentary resulted from a think‐tank during a colloquium of academics and practitioners from Europe, Africa, and North America, who came together for two intensive days of keynote presentations, thematic panels, and collaborative workshops to examine AI's promise in healthcare education. Participants highlighted three interwoven themes: employing universal design principles to AI‐driven learning experiences; balancing innovation with digital equity; and crafting policy frameworks that encourage adoption while guarding against algorithmic bias. Yet significant hurdles persist—ethical dilemmas around data privacy, bias in machine learning models, and a digital division between resource‐rich and resource‐poor groups and countries. To address these challenges, the following recommendations emerged: foster interdisciplinary research partnerships, establish transparent AI governance structures, and invest in scalable assistive technologies. Ultimately, continued international collaboration is needed to ensure AI becomes a force for narrowing, not widening, educational disparities—and to secure a future where accessible learning is a reality for all.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1111/eje.70141
Uncontrolled keywords: assistive technology, ethical AI implementation, digital equity, perspectives on AI, artificial intelligence in education
Subjects: L Education
Institutional Unit: Professional Services > Student Life
Former Institutional Unit:
There are no former institutional units.
Funders: University of Kent (https://ror.org/00xkeyj56)
SWORD Depositor: JISC Publications Router
Depositing User: JISC Publications Router
Date Deposited: 25 Mar 2026 09:11 UTC
Last Modified: 26 Mar 2026 10:51 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/113553 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

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