Artificial Intelligence (AI) can significantly impact how special education teachers personalize learning and support diverse student needs. Since AI can analyze large amounts of data, adapt teaching methods, and provide personalized feedback, it can be highly effective in delivering tailored interventions.

While many of us have used generic Large Language Models (LLMs) to draft proposals, write emails, or solve algebraic problems, vertical AI trained on sector-specific data can do much more. It can collaborate with teams, act as an intelligent assistant, or work behind the scenes to streamline various processes; it can help save time and effort while minimizing errors.

In this post, we will discuss the top five areas where AI could soon help in special education classrooms:

1. Personalized Learning Paths

AI-powered platforms can adapt learning content based on student performance data by providing personalized learning paths that cater to individual learning styles and needs.

This capability can be particularly beneficial in special education, where students often require tailored instructional approaches.

For instance, Khanmigo by Khan Academy stands out as an educational app that leverages AI to dynamically adjust the difficulty of exercises based on student performance.

It provides:

• Personalized Recommendations: AI algorithms analyze student performance data to provide personalized practice exercises and instructional content recommendations.
• Adaptive Learning Paths: The AI system adjusts the difficulty and sequence of exercises based on real-time performance data.
• Data Analytics: AI analytics track student progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed.

Khan Academy is widely accessible globally through its website and mobile apps, offering educational resources in multiple languages. However, specific features and content availability may differ across regions.

Many schools and districts globally integrate Khan Academy into their curriculum to personalize learning for students with diverse needs.

2. Speech and Language Therapy

AI-driven speech recognition tools can assist speech therapists in assessing speech patterns and providing targeted interventions.

These tools can allow therapists to track progress more effectively and customize therapy sessions for students with speech disorders.

For instance, Yoodli, an AI speech coach, helps improve your communication skills without the pressure of an audience.

Such tools can help in SpEd classrooms in many ways, such as::

• Real-time feedback: One way that AI can assist speech therapists during therapy sessions is through speech recognition software.
• Personalized programs: Personalize therapy programs to help the individual.
• Track data: Provide real-time feedback on an individual’s progress and identify areas where additional support is needed.

3. Assistive Technologies

AI can enhance accessibility for special needs students; it can convert text to speech, provide image descriptions, and support reading comprehension for students with learning disabilities.

These technologies can also help generate educational materials that are accessible to all students, regardless of their abilities.

Speechify, for example, is an innovative text-to-speech application that teachers can use in special education classrooms. .

Here's how tools like Speechify can benefit special need students:

• Accessibility to Textual Content: Enable students with reading disabilities, such as dyslexia or visual impairments, to access and comprehend written materials more effectively.
• Personalized Learning: Help students adjust their reading speed and voice preferences according to their comfort and comprehension levels.
• Improvement in Reading Skills: Provide auditory reinforcement that can enhance reading skills over time for students struggling with reading fluency and comprehension.
• Multi-Tasking and Flexibility: Special needs students can listen to educational content while performing other tasks, such as completing assignments, commuting, or engaging in physical activities.
• Language Learning Support: Support language learners by pronouncing words accurately and aiding in vocabulary acquisition.

4. Behavioral Analytics

AI models can analyze behavioral data to identify patterns and trends in student behavior.

This data-driven approach can help teachers better understand their students’ needs and implement targeted interventions to support behavioral management and social-emotional development.

Bloomz, for example, supports behavioral analytics and intervention planning for special needs students. It enhances overall educational experience through data-driven insights and personalized support.

• AI Features: Bloomz incorporates AI algorithms to analyze behavioral data and provide actionable insights for educators.
• Behavior Tracking: Educators can use Bloomz to monitor and track student behavior in real time; it can record both positive and negative behaviors.
• Intervention Planning: Based on the behavioral insights provided by the AI, Bloomz helps educators create personalized behavior plans and interventions.
• Parent Communication: Bloomz facilitates communication between educators and parents regarding student behavior.

5. Tutoring System

AI can help personalize tutoring and create adaptive learning paths. Such systems can adjust instruction based on student progress and performance data to improve learning outcomes.

MobyMax, for example, uses AI to offer personalized learning paths and adaptive assessments across various subjects.