With recent technological breakthroughs, AI is developing as a revolution for mankind, and it has obvious potential advantages in a number of areas. The potential to improve the educational outcomes and experiences of children with exceptional needs by incorporating AI in special education is significant. The theoretical foundations of using AI in special education have been examined in this study and how AI technologies could enhance learning outcomes and promote inclusion. This study aims to further the understanding of how AI may successfully help students with special needs while simultaneously addressing the practical difficulties involved with its implementation. In conclusion, integrating AI into special education has enormous potential to enhance the educational results and experiences of kids with exceptional needs. The use of AI-driven technology may help special educators as well as persons with special needs by enabling real-time feedback and evaluation, individualized education and rehabilitation services, and training tailored to each individual's requirements.
TopIntroduction
The use of digital technology has become an inevitable part of our lives. Digital technology has changed communication, information-seeking, and almost all areas of individual functioning. Relevant modifications have been made to the educational system as a result. Many countries have started incorporating digital technology in educational and special education settings.
After the advent of digital technology, the work environment altered as autonomous robotics, virtual assistants, IoT, virtual reality, and other technologies were introduced. People with special needs can benefit greatly from these technologies as well. People with special needs have a very difficult time joining the regular workforce because they find it difficult to adjust to change. Except in a few developing nations, integration of people with impairments into society at large can be difficult. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1.3 billion people, or 16% of the population of the globe, will have a disability by 2023. 93 million children are aged less than 14. They are denied equitable employment opportunities, suffer from social marginalization, prejudice, and stigma, and lack access to healthcare services (Garg & Sharma, 2020). People with disabilities are left behind in terms of education, employment opportunities, and independent living as a result of the absence of assistive technology. According to WHO (2023), there are around 2.5 billion people who require some sort of assistive technology or equipment.
These technologies can make life easier for people with or without disability. Recently, there has been a significant increase in public interest in the application of computerized learning in the classroom. Artificial intelligence in the field of education as well as special education could bring about a dramatic revolution in the educational system. AI can change how educators deliver, evaluate, and impart education in the field of special education. Special educators may enhance educational outcomes for students of all ages and educational backgrounds by tailoring learning experiences, providing targeted support, and implementing AI algorithms and intelligent systems.
For instance, as per Microsoft report, the commencement of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and chatbots can help children with Dyslexia to learn faster. The development of AI-based practices can help empower people with special needs to grow and develop.
As a result, the current study aims to examine the advantages and constraints of AI applications in the field of special education. Along with this, we have also discussed how AI practices may be used in special education. Understanding the current state and potential applications of AI in education, we may visualize a more adaptable, customized, and equitable learning environment that meets the diverse needs of special children.
Special Education: The purpose of special education, often referred to as Special needs education is to help students who differ significantly from the general population in terms of their social, mental, or physical development. This type of specialized instruction is designed for kids who struggle with emotional, behavioral, or cognitive issues. Children who are bright and have superior academic skills are also included, as are those who have intellectual, hearing, visual, speech, or learning challenges. Additionally, children with orthopedic or neurological abnormalities are catered to in special education. Figure 1 illustrates some common types of disabilities.
Figure 1. Some common types of disabilities
According to UNESCO (2017), special education, also known as special needs education, refers to distinct courses, institutions, and programs of study created especially for children who are classified as having exceptional educational requirements. Or, to put it another way, special education is the type of instruction created to support the learning of students who, for various reasons, need extra assistance and flexible teaching techniques to engage with the curriculum and achieve their academic goals (UIS-UNESCO, n.d.).