AI and Accessibility

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing accessibility by offering new ways to support students with disabilities. From assisting with communication to providing customized learning experiences, AI can help create a more inclusive educational environment for all students.


How AI Tools Can Assist Students with Disabilities

  1. Text-to-Speech (TTS) Technology
    AI-powered text-to-speech (TTS) tools allow students with visual impairments or reading difficulties to listen to written content, making textbooks, lecture notes, and digital materials more accessible.

    • Example Tools: Natural Reader, ReadSpeaker, and Microsoft Immersive Reader.
    • Use Case: Students with dyslexia can use TTS tools to convert text into spoken words, improving comprehension and reducing the cognitive load of reading.

  2. Speech-to-Text (STT) Technology
    AI-based speech-to-text tools convert spoken language into text, assisting students who have difficulty typing or writing.

    • Example Tools: Google Voice Typing, Otter.ai, and Microsoft’s Dictate.
    • Use Case: Students with physical disabilities that affect mobility can use these tools to take notes, write essays, or participate in class discussions by speaking into the software.

  3. Predictive Text and Word Prediction
    Predictive text uses AI to suggest words or phrases as students type, which can be a great help for students with writing disabilities or motor impairments.

    • Example Tools: Grammarly, Microsoft Word’s predictive text, and Gboard’s predictive typing.
    • Use Case: Predictive text reduces the number of keystrokes needed, supporting students with motor difficulties or those with learning disabilities that affect spelling.


Using AI to Improve Course Accessibility

  1. AI for Captioning and Transcription
    AI can automatically generate captions for video lectures and course materials, making content accessible to students with hearing impairments.

    • Example Tools: Rev.ai, Zoom’s auto-captioning, YouTube’s automatic captions.
    • Use Case: Faculty can upload recorded lectures, and AI tools will provide captions, allowing students who are deaf or hard of hearing to follow along in real time.

  2. Automated Translation
    AI-powered translation tools can help non-native English speakers understand course materials and participate fully in class.

    • Example Tools: Google Translate, Microsoft Translator.
    • Use Case: Students can use these tools to translate lecture slides or assignments into their native language, improving their comprehension and engagement with the course.


AI's Role in Designing Accessible Instructional Content

  1. Creating Alternative Formats
    AI can be used to create alternative content formats, such as audio versions of textbooks or simplified reading materials for students with cognitive disabilities.

    • Example Tools: Ally for Blackboard, SensusAccess.
    • Use Case: AI tools can convert traditional text-based resources into various formats (audio, Braille, large print) that accommodate different learning needs.

  2. Adaptive Learning Systems
    AI-powered adaptive learning platforms can adjust the level of difficulty and the type of resources provided based on the student's individual needs.

    • Example Tools: DreamBox, Smart Sparrow, and ALEKS.
    • Use Case: These systems continuously assess student performance and adapt the content in real time, ensuring that each student learns at their own pace and according to their capabilities.

AI offers a wide range of tools that can significantly enhance accessibility in higher education. By integrating these tools, faculty, disability services, and IT support can create more inclusive learning environments where all students have the opportunity to succeed.