Navigating AI in Medical Laboratory Education

Nadine Lerret

The Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference (CLEC) Steering Committee is pleased to announce the plenary session for CLEC 2026 will feature Nadine Lerret, PhD, MLS(ASCP)CM, and her presentation, “Responsible Use of AI for Educators” on February 6, at 9:15 am Pacific.

Generative AI tools are already influencing how students learn, study, and prepare for professional practice. However, responsible AI integration requires more than simply adopting new technologies—it demands a thoughtful, ethical, and transparent approach to teaching and assessment.

In this plenary session, Dr. Lerret will draw on recent survey data examining student use of AI in healthcare and laboratory science education to explore how educators can:

  • Promote ethical and responsible use of AI in the classroom
  • Design transparent assessments that encourage learning, not shortcuts
  • Engage students as informed and critical users of AI tools
  • Incorporate AI into active learning strategies that align with professional expectations

This session will offer practical insights for faculty, administrators, and program leaders navigating the rapidly evolving role of AI in education.

About the Speaker

Dr. Lerret serves as Associate Dean of Academic and AI Integration in the College of Health Sciences at RUSH University, as well as Associate Professor and Program Director in the Department of Medical Laboratory Science.

She is recognized for her innovative teaching strategies and early adoption of generative AI technologies. Her work has positioned her as a leader in leveraging AI to improve learning outcomes while preparing students to responsibly use these tools in their future professional roles within healthcare and laboratory science.

Join Us at CLEC 2026

CLEC 2026 will be held February 5-7 in Bellevue, Washington, near Seattle. Registrants have the option to attend in-person or virtuallyRegister by January 21 to get the regular rate and save $60 off the onsite/late registration rate.