Abstract:

Since the advent of computers, disabled people have been provided with new, exciting opportunities to connect, share, work and learn. Assistive technologies (such as screen-readers for blind users) have and will continue to help physically disabled people participate in employment and society alongside their colleagues and fellow citizens. However, while very successful, these technologies can still create an exclusive factor which can cause a disabled user to stand apart from others at societal, community, relationship and individual levels. Also, mainstream technologies such as the Internet, are not as accessible as one may hope despite efforts such as the establishment of design and development guidelines alongside international law and policies to ensure the inclusion of accessibility factors. With the emergence of new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) care must be taken not to become complacent toward inclusion. AI-based technologies, for example smart home speakers and voice assistants, and connected IoT (Internet of Things) smart devices etc., could begin a process that breaks down barriers for those citizens with disabilities however, developers need to consider accessibility in their design process in order to meet the needs of the broader user community. AI advances in predictive text, visual recognition and speech-to-text transcription are so far showing enormous potential for helping people with vision, hearing, cognitive, learning, mobility disabilities.

In consideration of the EDUCAUSE Horizon report on teaching and learning (2020), this paper examines current research and developments in relation to AI and adaptive technologies with a focus on its integration into mainstream education. With a spotlight on inclusion we examine the strengths and weaknesses of AI for purpose and ask the question ‘can AI offer choice and control over how those with disabilities are they enabled by such technologies to reach their full potential on an equal level with their peers?’ We look at opportunities and threats for AI as a crucial part in the puzzle for making educational technology equally accessible for those with disabilities.

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence, Education, Accessibility, Inclusion, HCI.