Schools embrace AI to improve accessibility
Schools are adopting AI-powered assistive technologies to improve accessibility, balancing benefits like enhanced learning support with concerns about ethical use and over-reliance.

AI is transforming education for students with disabilities, offering tools that level the playing field. From reading assistance to speech and language tools, AI is enabling students to overcome learning barriers. For 14-year-old Makenzie Gilkison, who has dyslexia, AI-powered assistive technology has been life-changing, allowing her to excel academically and keep pace with her peers.
Schools are increasingly adopting AI for personalised learning, balancing its benefits with ethical considerations. Tools like chatbots and text-to-speech programs enhance accessibility while raising concerns about over-reliance and the potential for misuse. Experts emphasise that AI should support, not replace, learning.
Research and development are advancing rapidly, addressing challenges like children’s handwriting and speech impediments. Initiatives such as the National AI Institute for Exceptional Education aim to refine these tools, while educators work to ensure students and teachers are equipped to harness their potential effectively.