Update to this post, thanks to Dr Jim Turner (LJMU) Current Chair of ELESIG, for this blog post, Charting Uncharted Waters: How ELESIG’s Roundtable Sheds Light on AI’s Neurodiverse Students’ Education which summarises the webinar and has the following tips.
Tips for thinking through AI and Neurodiversity
Here is a summary of some of the tips for those working in this area.
- Invest some time to get to know AI: For individuals delving into the interplay between AI and neurodiversity, it is essential to invest time in understanding the nuances of the technology. Start by exploring the functionality of AI tools, focusing on their strengths and limitations. Be open to engaging with specialized learning resources, such as courses on prompt engineering, to comprehend the intricacies involved in AI technology. This endeavor requires a commitment to continuous learning, transcending initial reactions, and a dedication to exploring practical applications and implications of AI in the context of neurodiversity.
- Bring expertise together: Another invaluable tip is to foster collaboration among various experts within an institution, bridging the gap between technological know-how and an understanding of students’ diverse needs. By connecting those with expertise in AI technology with professionals who comprehend the multifaceted requirements of neurodiverse students, a synergy can be achieved that allows for the development of more tailored and effective AI-supported educational strategies and interventions.
The original invitation
An invitation to join colleagues from City, University London and Oxford University, for an online lunchtime conversation, which aims to share perspectives on the evolving understanding, opportunities, and challenges surrounding AI and neurodiversity within higher education.
Online using the Collaborate webinar platform, on Tuesday, 4th July 2023, 1pm to 2pm.
Please register for the event on the ALT events website and you will be sent an invite.
This discussion is designed to create a supportive space for attendees to actively share their experiences and perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of how AI can impact neurodiverse students’ educational journey.
My thoughts about what this conversation might address,
- Thinking about transition to Higher Education and students becoming independent learners
- What AI based tools can offer to enhance learning and how to keep up?
- What barriers do these fast evolving tools present? i.e. are they accessible by design? are they easy to learn? are they free or will they cost? how to choose the right one?
The colleagues round the table are:
Sarah Hopp: Student Disability and Neurodiversity Manager, City University London
Dominik Lukeš: Assistive Technology Officer, University of Oxford
Ross Thomas: Disability and Neurodiversity Advisor at City, University of London
Find out more from our previous round table Four Perspectives on AI and the Student Digital Experience, blog post and recording.
I hope you can join us, for this and other engaging virtual conversations provided by the ELESIG community, which is an Association For Learning Technology special interest group.
kind regards,
Sandra Partington, Digital Accessibility Project Lead and ELESIG London Rep.
Find out how we are taking and Institutional Approach to Digital Accessibility here at City, University London.
