Executive Summary
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing every field it touches, and education is no exception. AI offers extraordinary opportunities to tailor learning by providing critical support through engaging educational tools, adaptive technologies, and personalized learning aids. While some schools are utilizing these tools, others are determined to maintain AI-free classrooms. By banning AI, schools would not only hinder these advancements but also exacerbate educational inequalities. As schools navigate AI adoption, it is imperative to recognize the transformative potential of AI in fostering an inclusive and effective learning environment.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why AI Must Be Embraced in Special Education 4
Background: How AI Bans Affect Students with Disabilities 4
1. How AI Makes Learning More Engaging 6
a. Interactive AI Tutoring: Boosting Interest for Students with Disabilities 6
b. Interactive AI Simulations: Tailored Educational Experiences 8
2. How AI Improves Accessibility 10
a. Breaking Barriers: AI’s Role in Supporting Students with Physical Disabilities 10
b. Inclusive Learning: AI’s Assistance for Students with Cognitive Disabilities 11
3. How AI Improves Access to Personalized Learning 12
a. AI in IEP Development: Enhancing Efficiency and Personalization 12
Introduction: Why AI Must Be Embraced in Special Education
AI has the potential to make a profoundly positive impact on the way people learn. This impact can be felt the most by those with disabilities, as AI serves as an assistive aid for those in this community. Although some schools are embracing AI, others are banning it. During this turbulent time, schools should embrace the use of AI. While banning AI would significantly hinder academic progress and inclusion, the integration of AI in classrooms provides critical support for students with disabilities through engaging educational tools, adaptive technologies, and personalized learning aids.
Background: How AI Bans Affect Students with Disabilities
As schools grapple with the implications of AI, many opt for outright bans. These bans can unintentionally hinder students with disabilities, who can benefit and overcome learning barriers using AI tools. By restricting access to AI, schools widen the gap between these students and their peers, creating additional challenges in their education. Embracing AI, on the other hand, offers the potential to make education more inclusive for all.
Schools that ban the use of AI often do so over concerns of its misuse[1]. These institutions worry about the potential for academic dishonesty, as AI tools like ChatGPT could be used to generate answers to assignments. Schools may also lack the
[1] Arianna Johnson, ChatGPT In Schools: Here’s Where It’s Banned—And How It Could Potentially Help Students, Forbes, (Sep. 9, 2024), https://www.forbes.com/sites/ariannajohnson/2023/01/18/chatgpt-in-schools-heres-where-its-banned-and-how-it-could-potentially-help-students/.
resources or expertise to implement an AI policy effectively, as adequate funding, resources, technology, and infrastructure is crucial for a school to properly embrace AI[1]. For these schools, it can seem easier for them to ban its use altogether.
For students with disabilities, AI bans can have severe implications. By banning AI, schools may inadvertently limit these students’ access to tools that could help them overcome learning barriers and achieve their full potential. When AI bans are in place, students might pursue exemptions, allowing the use of AI tools in a limited capacity. In many cases, the process of seeking an exemption can be an unproductive and lengthy process, creating thresholds and barriers for students. When schools draw lines in the sand, they must decide what students are “disabled enough” for accommodations. A student on the edge of this line could benefit from the implementation of an AI tool but may still be denied, fettering their academic achievement. For example, a student with mild hearing loss might struggle to follow along in class discussions or lectures. While they may not qualify for traditional accommodations, an AI tool that provides real-time transcription of spoken words could help them keep up with the class and fully engage with the material, thereby improving their academic outcomes.
In addition, schools that ban AI tools face a significant challenge in ensuring that these tools are not being used by students. Students can find ways to access banned AI tools outside of school, creating an uneven playing field. This situation places an additional burden on students who genuinely need these tools. This again furthers the divide between students with disabilities from those without.
Conversely, schools that embrace AI often do so because they recognize its potential to enhance educational outcomes[2]. These institutions see AI as a powerful tool to personalize learning experiences, making education more accessible and engaging for all students, including those with disabilities.[3] By integrating AI into their curriculum and operations, these schools aim to tailor educational content to meet the diverse needs of their students.
While banning AI seems to address concerns of its misuse, it unintentionally hinders students with disabilities who can benefit from these tools. When considering the benefits of AI, it becomes clear that schools should embrace these technologies to enhance the education of students with disabilities.
1. How AI Makes Learning More Engaging
AI enables students, particularly those with disabilities, to engage more deeply with classroom content. AI’s can now serve as tutors, meeting students where they are and providing tailored assistance. Additionally, AI can create immersive simulations that help students understand and appreciate the relevance of the material.
a. Interactive AI Tutoring: Boosting Interest for Students with Disabilities
Tutors were once something out of reach for most, but AI now can serve as an accessible tutor on almost any topic and allow students to access help whenever they need it. AI tutors can provide support to students with disabilities by offering personalized on-demand assistance that caters to their unique learning needs. AI tutors are either specific AI programs created to serve as educators or tutors, like Kahn Academy’s Khanmigo, or general AIs, like Chat GPT, that can be prompted to act as tutors[4]. Both types of AI can be used to create additional explanations and practice problems for students who struggle with certain concepts. This is particularly beneficial for those who may require more time to grasp certain subjects. Unlike human tutors, AI tutors are available 24/7, do not grow tired or frustrated when a student is not understanding a concept, and do not charge an hourly fee. These tools allow for students to work toward understanding the material at their own pace without fear of embarrassment or judgement.
Additionally, AI tutors can tailor their explanations to match students’ interests. Teachers have been using engaging examples and images to help students learn, but AI allows them to do so faster and easier than ever before, enabling them to use captivating content more often. This approach not only enhances the learning experience for students with disabilities but also boosts the engagement and participation of all students, ensuring they remain engaged[5].
AI can also be prompted to explain the age-old question of, “why does learning about this even matter,” by explaining how topics can matter both practically or how they can matter based on a student’s particular interest. This personalized approach not only helps students see the real-world relevance of what they are learning but also caters to their individual needs and preferences. For students with disabilities, AI’s ability to be tailored to each students’ unique needs and interests fosters a more inclusive and engaging educational environment.
b. Interactive AI Simulations: Tailored Educational Experiences
AI simulations provide a unique approach to education by replicating real-life scenarios. These simulations create engaging and immersive learning experiences that are particularly beneficial for some students with disabilities. These simulations help students develop essential life skills in a safe and controlled environment, enhancing their confidence and competence through repeated practice and tailored feedback. AI simulations are interactive prompts that replicate real-life conversations or events, facilitating a new way to learn for students. For instance, a teacher aiming to prepare students to dine at a restaurant can utilize AI to simulate going to a restaurant. These simulations can be conducted either as a group activity or individually, giving educators flexibility in how they conduct the lesson. Moreover, the simulations can be prompted to have something “go wrong” and the students have to react to it. In addition, at the conclusion of the simulation, students can receive constructive feedback from the AI, highlighting areas of strength and suggesting improvements. For example, in the restaurant scenario, a student might be praised for how they responded to a server’s greetings and pleasantries before placing their order, but the AI may suggest that the student be more understanding when their server informs them that their entrée of choice is not available. This immediate feedback helps students refine their social skills in a supportive environment. AI simulations are particularly beneficial for many students with disabilities, as they offer a safe and controlled setting to practice and develop essential life skills. The adaptability of AI allows for tailored simulations that cater to the unique needs of each student, promoting an inclusive educational experience.
AI simulations can also be utilized to immerse students in historical and fictional events, offering a unique and engaging way to explore new concepts. Teachers can create interactive scenarios where students have a class discussion with historical figures like Abraham Lincoln or William Shakespeare, or even imaginative characters such as a friendly alien. By participating in these AI simulations, students can gain a deeper understanding of historical contexts and literary themes. AI simulations can be tailored to suit the needs and interests of individual students or conducted as a collaborative class activity. The interactive nature of these simulations fosters active participation, critical thinking, and empathy, as students step into the shoes of different characters and perspectives. These simulations are not only educational but also highly engaging, making learning enjoyable and memorable.
AI tutors and interactive simulations significantly enhance the learning experience for students by making education more engaging. This is especially beneficial for many students with disabilities, helping them remain engaged and motivated. Schools that ban the use of AI would miss out on these valuable benefits.
2. How AI Improves Accessibility
By incorporating AI, classrooms can greatly enhance accessibility for students with disabilities, both physical and cognitive, through the use of cutting-edge tools and technologies that break down conventional obstacles.
a. Breaking Barriers: AI’s Role in Supporting Students with Physical Disabilities
AI is making learning more accessible for students with physical disabilities, by providing innovative tools and technologies to assist them while learning. Screen readers and voice recognition software are prime examples of how AI is transforming accessibility. Screen readers convert digital text into spoken words, allowing visually impaired students to listen to textbooks, articles, and other educational materials[6]. AI speech-to-text tools enable students to input text using their voice, making it easier to complete assignments and participate in classroom discussions[7]. Additionally, an AI tool by Be My Eyes called Be My AI allows those with impaired vision to submit pictures and images for the AI to describe[8]. For instance, a student preparing for a presentation might use the Be My AI to assist in creating a slideshow that includes both images and text. The AI tool can help the student select appropriate images by describing them and ensuring they align with the presentation’s theme. This endows students with greater independence. By both using and allowing the use of these AI technologies, educators can create a more inclusive and accessible educational experience, empowering students with disabilities.
b. Inclusive Learning: AI’s Assistance for Students with Cognitive Disabilities
AI is making learning more accessible for students with cognitive learning disabilities by providing tools tailored to their unique needs. These tools can function in various ways, depending on the specific requirements of each student. Many students with learning disabilities struggle with writing and communication. AI tools can significantly assist by making both writing and communication easier. For instance, tools like Co:Writer are designed to predict the next word a student intends to write, which can be incredibly beneficial for various student groups[9]. For students with autism who rely on communication devices, these predictive tools can streamline their interactions, making it easier for them to express their thoughts and participate in classroom discussions[10]. Similarly, students with dysgraphia, who may struggle with writing tasks, can use these tools to assist with assignments and note-taking, thereby reducing frustration and improving their academic performance[11]. Additionally, AI tools can support students with cognitive learning disabilities by supplying personalized assistance tailored to their unique needs, such as through AI tutors. By integrating AI into classrooms, educators can create a more supportive and effective learning environment for everyone.
The adoption of AI in educational environments ensures that students with physical and cognitive disabilities can benefit from innovative tools and technologies, making education more accessible for all. This technological advancement not only levels the playing field but also promotes an inclusive atmosphere where every student has the opportunity to thrive. By breaking down traditional barriers, AI paves the way for a more equitable and supportive learning experience. Schools that deny students the ability to use these AI tools needlessly further the divide between disabled students and their peers.
3. How AI Improves Access to Personalized Learning
AI’s ability to quickly and efficiently cater to the needs of students with disabilities will revolutionize how Individualized Education Programs are created. Additionally, AI empowers students to design their own personalized learning plans, fostering a sense of control and ownership over their education. By making learning more personalized, AI helps address the unique needs of each student, leading to better engagement and academic outcomes.
a. AI in IEP Development: Enhancing Efficiency and Personalization
AI is poised to transform the process of developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). IEPs are legally mandated plans in many educational systems, designed to ensure that students with disabilities receive tailored support.[12] While IEPs are comprehensive, they can be resource-intensive to develop and maintain. AI can significantly enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of creating these plans[13]. For example, a teacher may want to create an IEP for a student that allows the student to fulfill their goals of becoming more independent and improving reading comprehension. The teacher would then prompt the AI with the relative limitations and details of what they would like to include in the IEP. The teacher might utilize AI to generate three different versions of the IEP, providing a range of tailored plans. The teacher would then adjust the plan, if necessary, still maintaining the important role of applying their own professional judgement.
AI also enables teachers to explore different ways to evaluate students to see if their IEPs had been meant. An AI can be prompted to come up with ten different ways to test for the skills at issue. Following this, the teacher can bring this plan to the child’s parent or guardian to get feedback. If significant adjustments are required, the teacher can employ the AI tool again to refine the plan or request further recommendations. By using AI to create drafts of IEPs, teachers can explore a greater number of options and be more creative in how they curate IEPs for their students. Additionally, AI can generate specific assessments to track progress on goals, such as creating reading comprehension exercises tailored to an IEP. This would allow teachers to use the IEP to prompt an AI to generate problem sets based on specific IEPs rather than having to create or find already constructed sheets.
Integrating AI into the development and management of IEPs not only streamlines the process but also empowers educators to provide effective support for their students. AI allows educators to focus on personalized instruction, rather than being encumbered by administrative tasks.
b. AI-Driven Personalized Learning Plans: Empowering Students with Disabilities
Additionally, AI empowers disabled students to design their own personalized learning plans, fostering a sense of control and ownership over their education. Similarly to IEPs, personalized learning plans are designed to meet a student’s unique needs, strengths, and learning styles[14]. These plans work to enable each student to learn in the most effective way they can, by using information about the student to create a personalized plan that lays out the pace, content, and methods of study. These types of plans are particularly useful for university students and students participating in remote learning.
AI enables students to quickly design their own personalized learning plans. Students can customize their learning schedules to fit their unique needs, such as setting individual goals, adjusting the pace of learning, and incorporating necessary breaks and rest periods. For instance, a student with ADHD might use AI to design a study schedule that includes breaks and other focus-enhancing strategies to stay motivated while completing her readings. She might also request the AI to help plan her final paper by suggesting milestones that include a two-week buffer before the deadline, providing flexibility if she misses any milestones. The ability to easily create tailored learning plans makes learning and studying more manageable for students with disabilities. This customization can lead to reduced stress and anxiety, as students have control over their learning schedule, allowing for a more flexible and responsive educational experience. Moreover, personalized plans that include regular breaks and rest periods help students to maintain focus and improve information retention[15]. Additionally, planning buffer days to accommodate unexpected challenges or health fluctuations ensures students do not fall behind due to unforeseen circumstances. AI acts as a supportive tool that not only adapts to the student’s current needs but also evolves with them. By incorporating these elements, AI helps create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for students with disabilities, ultimately enhancing their educational experience and outcomes.
It is apparent that AI has emerged as a transformative force in education. AI can swiftly generate comprehensive IEPs that cater to the specific needs of each student, and AI empowers students to design their own personalized learning plans. By providing every student the customized support they need, AI is reshaping the educational landscape into a more inclusive and effective environment, where all students can thrive. However, if schools ban AI, these advancements and personalized support would not be possible, hindering the progress towards a more inclusive educational system.
Embracing AI: Paving the Way for Inclusive Education
The integration of AI in education is not just a technological advancement, but a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and effective learning environment. By embracing AI, schools can provide essential support to students with disabilities, ensuring they have equal opportunities to succeed. The engaging educational tools, adaptive technologies, and personalized learning aids that AI offers can transform the educational experience, making it more accessible and tailored to individual needs. As we navigate this period of rapid technological change, it is imperative that educational institutions recognize the immense benefits of AI and incorporate it into their teaching strategies, rather than shying away from its potential. If schools ban the use of AI, they will lose out of these immense benefits. Embracing AI in education will not only enhance learning outcomes but also foster a more inclusive and supportive educational landscape for all students.
[1] Shawn Augenstein, The Stumbling Blocks for Artificial Intelligence in K–12 Education, EdTech, (Sep. 9, 2024) https://edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2024/05/stumbling-blocks-artificial-intelligence-k-12-education.
[2] Exploring the Role of AI in Special Education, 21K School, (Sep. 9, 2024), https://www.21kschool.com/us/blog/ai-in-special-education/.
[3] Id.
[4] Microsoft Education Team, Khanmigo for Teachers: Your free AI-powered teaching tool, Microsoft (Oct. 8, 2024), https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/blog/2024/08/khanmigo-for-teachers-your-free-ai-powered-teaching-tool/; Khanmigo for educators, Khan Academy, (Oct. 8, 2024), https://www.khanacademy.org/khan-for-educators/khanmigo-for-educators; GPT-4 is OpenAI’s most advanced system, producing safer and more useful responses, OpenAI, (Oct. 8, 2024), https://openai.com/index/gpt-4/.
[5] Ella Miesner, Boosting Interest in Learning by Focusing on Both Content and Students’ Needs, Edutopia, (Oct. 8, 2024) https://www.edutopia.org/article/increasing-student-interest-learning/.
[6] An introduction to screen readers, AbilityNet, (Oct. 8, 2024), https://abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/introduction-screen-readers.
[7] Teresa Gardner, Speech Recognition for Students with Disabilities in Writing, Speech Recognition for Students with Disabilities, 43, 47 (2017).
[8] Service AI, Be My Eyes, (Oct. 8, 2024), https://www.bemyeyes.com/service-ai.
[9] Co:Writer, (Oct. 10, 2024), https://cowriter.com/.
[10] Casey Schmalacker & Samantha Curiale-Feinman, Smart Pens, Tablets, and Word Prediction Software: Utilizing Technology for High School and College Students, Autism Spectrum News, (Oct. 8, 2024), https://autismspectrumnews.org/smart-pens-tablets-and-word-prediction-software-utilizing-technology-for-high-school-and-college-students/.
[11] Co:Writer Kickstarts the Writer Inside, Don Johnston, (Oct. 8, 2024), https://learningtools.donjohnston.com/product/cowriter/.
[12] The Understood Team, Understanding IEPs, Understood, (Oct. 5, 2024), https://www.understood.org/en/articles/understanding-individualized-education-programs.
[13] Daniel Jhin Yoo, More Human Than Human: Goalbook’s Approach to AI And a Sneak Peek of Goalbook Toolkit with AI in 2024, Medium, (Oct. 5, 2024); https://medium.com/innovative-instruction/more-human-than-human-goalbooks-approach-to-ai-312ac72882c6#:~:text=Utilizing%20AI%2Ddriven%20methods%20such,throughout%20the%20IEP%20design%20process.&text=A%20screenshot%20of%20aligned%20reading,levels%20statement%20in%20Goalbook%20Toolkit.
[14] Nancy Mann Jackson, How personalized learning powers special ed, District Administration, (Oct. 1, 2024), https://districtadministration.com/how-personalized-learning-powers-special-ed/.
[15] The Pomodoro Technique, Todoist, (Oct. 5, 2024), https://todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique.