How Artificial Intelligence is Transforming Learning for Students with Disabilities
For 14-year-old Makenzie Gilkison, the word "rhinoceros" might emerge as "rineanswsaurs," or perhaps even "srkastik." This challenge reflects her journey with dyslexia, which often makes reading feel less like a skill and more like an uphill battle.
Finding Strength through AI
Makenzie, who lives in suburban Indianapolis, can sound out words but finds that the effort takes such a toll that she struggles to understand the material. “I just assumed I was stupid,” she recalls from her early school days. Luckily, recent advancements in assistive technology powered by artificial intelligence have turned the tide for her.
Last year, Makenzie earned a spot in the National Junior Honor Society, a feat she credits to her AI-powered tools — including custom chatbots and word prediction programs that help read for her. "I would have just probably given up if I didn’t have them," she admits.
Unlocking Potential with New Technology
Artificial intelligence is opening doors for countless students grappling with visual, speech, language, and hearing challenges. Schools across the country are beginning to understand the significance of these tools, prioritizing their implementation particularly for students with disabilities. The U.S. Department of Education has urged schools to consider how technology like text-to-speech and communication devices can support their students. In tandem, new regulations from the Department of Justice aim to ensure that apps and online content are accessible for all, a monumental step in bridging educational gaps.
Despite the excitement, there are concerns regarding effective learning amid this new wave of tech. Many students are already utilizing AI to transform their educational journeys. For example, AI can distill convoluted thoughts into outlines, summarize challenging texts, or translate complex literature into simpler terms. The evolution of computer-generated voices has made reading aids sound increasingly human, ensuring that students like Makenzie feel supported rather than hindered.
“I’m seeing that a lot of students are kind of exploring on their own, almost feeling like they’ve found a cheat code in a video game,” observes Alexis Reid, an educational therapist in Boston who works with students with learning disabilities. In her eyes, this exploration is anything but cheating—“We’re meeting students where they are.”
Real-World Impact: Students Share Their Stories
Ben Snyder, a 14-year-old freshman from Larchmont, New York, who was recently diagnosed with a learning disability, is also leveraging AI for educational support. “Sometimes in math, my teachers will explain a problem to me, but it just makes absolutely no sense,” he explains. By using AI tools, he’s able to receive multiple explanations for a math problem, a game-changer for his understanding.
Ben highlights a program called Question AI, saying it helped him complete an outline for a book report in just 15 minutes instead of the usual hour and a half he’d struggle through otherwise. Nonetheless, he draws the line at having AI write entire reports, believing that would be crossing into cheating territory.
Schools Navigate the AI Landscape
As schools work to balance these emerging technologies’ benefits with potential drawbacks, it’s essential to ensure that students are still honing their skills. Mary Lawson from the Council of the Great City Schools states that if an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) outlines reading growth as a goal, a student must engage with that growth—AI shouldn’t do the work for them. Nevertheless, leaders like Paul Sanft believe AI can level the playing field, providing assistance in areas where students previously faced barriers.
As AI becomes more integrated into the educational ecosystem, some schools explore its potential for many students struggling academically, even those who don’t receive special education services. For example, Iowa’s recent legislation mandates individualized reading plans for students deemed not proficient, supported by a $3 million investment in AI-driven educational programs.
The Future of Assistive Technology
With funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation, research is underway to better assist students with disabilities. The National AI Institute for Exceptional Education at the University of Buffalo is developing tools focusing on speech and language difficulties, although some challenges remain—such as developing software that accurately interprets children’s handwriting and speech.
Amid these rapid advancements, educators acknowledge the challenges of identifying which educational technology will best serve their students. Richard Culatta, CEO of the International Society for Technology in Education, is leading efforts to make it easier for districts to consult and choose the right tools and ensure they are accessible.
Personal Reflections on Progress
Makenzie Gilkison wishes the technology were a bit more user-friendly—features sometimes toggle off unexpectedly, leaving her without options while the tech team investigates. This hiccup can deter students from utilizing the support they need. However, her mother, Nadine Gilkison, a technology integration supervisor in Indiana, sees more potential than pitfalls.
Her district’s introduction of chatbots for special education students marks a turning point. Teachers who once relied solely on direct interaction to support students can now empower them to learn independently. “Now we don’t need to wait anymore,” Nadine emphasizes.
Conclusion
The integration of artificial intelligence into education is revolutionizing the way students with disabilities learn, offering hope, independence, and newfound confidence. With ongoing advancements, educators and students alike are eagerly anticipating the next generation of tools that will support a brighter, more inclusive educational experience.
The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.
