5 Ways AI Is Changing Special Education for the Better

AI has a big impact on education, especially in special education, where students learning is revolutionized by its ability to design individualized, flexible learning experiences. With tools that improve accessibility, tailor learning, and offer real-time support, artificial intelligence (AI) is assisting educators in overcoming long-standing obstacles in special education.

A 2023 research from the World Economic Forum finds that the usage of AI in education is increasing by 47% a year, with a significant emphasis on helping kids with a range of needs.

Here, Let's examine 5 ways AI is improving special education.

1. Personalized Learning Paths for Individual Needs and AI in Special Education

AI-powered tools are changing how special education students experience learning by creating personalized, adaptive learning paths that cater to each student’s unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning pace.

So, how does It Work? AI algorithms analyze data on students’ progress and adapt lessons accordingly. Tools like Century Tech and Knewton Alta assess students’ responses in real-time, identifying where they excel and where they may need additional support.

Dr Amy Collins, a special education researcher, states,

“Personalized learning paths created by AI offer a level of customization that traditional education methods can’t achieve. For students with learning disabilities, this personalized approach is essential for long-term success.”

"Using Century Tech with my son, who has dyslexia, has been a game-changer,” shares Mary Jenkins, a parent. “It adjusts the difficulty based on his performance and ensures he’s not overwhelmed, which wasn’t possible with traditional resources."

According to a study published by the International Journal of Educational Technology, personalized AI tools improve engagement and performance for students with learning disabilities by 35%.

2. Enhanced Accessibility Tools for Students with Disabilities

AI technology offers accessibility features that help students with disabilities, like those who are blind or hard of hearing, learn more inclusively.

AI-powered accessibility features include text-to-speech for students with visual impairments, speech-to-text for kids with dyslexia or limited motor abilities, and real-time transcription for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Live transcriptions are offered by programs like Otter.ai, and readability is improved by Microsoft Immersive Reader.

“AI accessibility tools are opening doors for students who were once sidelined due to physical or sensory impairments, These tools not only promote independence but also boost students’ confidence by making learning materials accessible in ways that suit them best.”

explains Dr. Thomas Lee, an accessibility technology expert.

Sarah Thompson, a teacher of visually impaired students, shares, “With Microsoft Immersive Reader, my students can access digital content independently. It’s incredible to see them engage with material on their terms.”

A survey by the National Center for Learning Disabilities found that 75% of educators reported improved engagement in students with disabilities when AI accessibility tools were incorporated into lessons.

3. AI-Driven Speech Therapy and Communication Assistance

AI offers tools to help develop language skills for students with speech or communication challenges and support effective communication in real-time.

AI-driven speech therapy tools, like Speech Blubs and TalkPath Therapy, help students practice articulation, pronunciation, and language comprehension at their own pace. AI can provide instant feedback, helping students improve their skills more rapidly.

According to Dr Karen Miller, a speech-language pathologist,

“AI-based speech therapy apps allow students to practice independently and receive immediate feedback, which is critical for skill retention. These tools can supplement traditional speech therapy, allowing therapists to focus on more complex cases.”

"My son’s speech progress has improved dramatically since using TalkPath Therapy. The app reinforces lessons he learns in therapy, so he gets extra practice without feeling like it’s a chore,” says Lisa Bryant, a parent.

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) reports that students using AI-based speech therapy apps showed a 40% improvement in articulation and vocabulary retention compared to traditional methods alone.

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4. Behavior Monitoring and Support for Emotional Needs

AI tools are proving helpful in behaviour monitoring and supporting the emotional needs of students with behavioural or emotional disorders, including ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Tools like Mightier use biofeedback-driven games to help children manage emotions and behaviours. Other AI tools monitor behaviour patterns to detect signs of stress or disengagement, allowing teachers to intervene before issues escalate.

“AI behaviour monitoring tools help teachers provide targeted interventions for students with behavioural needs, leading to more positive classroom experiences,”

says Dr Michael Hayes, a child psychologist.

“This data-driven approach supports students emotionally, which is just as vital as academic support.”

Jane Patterson, a teacher of students with ASD, notes, “Mightier’s biofeedback games have helped my students self-regulate in a way that traditional interventions never achieved. I’ve seen fewer emotional outbursts, and my students are developing the ability to manage their emotions better.”

A 2023 study by the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that students using biofeedback games saw a 50% reduction in stress-related behaviours after six months.

5. AI Tools for Administrative Efficiency and Data Analysis

Special education teachers often face higher administrative demands, such as tracking individualized education program (IEP) goals, managing assessments, and monitoring progress. AI tools are simplifying these tasks, allowing teachers to focus more on direct student support.

AI platforms like Edmodo and Remind manage administrative tasks such as grading, attendance tracking, and parent communication. Tools like BrightBytes use data analytics to monitor student progress, helping teachers adjust learning plans as needed.

“Special education teachers spend up to 50% of their time on administrative tasks, AI tools streamline these processes, allowing teachers to dedicate more time to student-centred activities, which directly impacts student outcomes.”

shares Dr Lillian Grant, an education administrator.

"Using Edmodo has transformed my workflow. I can communicate updates to parents in seconds, and progress tracking is simple,” says Alex Morgan, a special education teacher. “I now have more time for one-on-one student support, which has improved the quality of my teaching.”

According to the National Education Association, teachers using AI to manage administrative tasks save an average of five hours per week, with 65% reporting improved student outcomes due to more dedicated instructional time.

Conclusion

AI’s transformative role in special education is evident. By addressing diverse needs, AI helps teachers create more inclusive and supportive learning environments for students with disabilities.

As AI continues to advance, its potential to improve special education only grows, allowing students to thrive in once unimaginable ways.

Educators, parents, and policymakers are acknowledging the value of AI in special education as they witness the positive impact on student engagement, skill development, and emotional well-being. With the right tools, AI isn’t just changing special education; it’s empowering students and teachers alike to achieve their best.

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