Generative artificial intelligence (genAI) has the potential to influence all aspects of life, including education and supports for people with disabilities. To realize these benefits, it is incumbent on educators to both understand this emergent technology and know how to make informed decisions about its use. However, recent surveys indicate that fewer than half of all educators have received any professional development on using generative AI.
Through lecture, demos, and hands-on activities, AT consultant Shelley Haven will provide attendees with the foundational knowledge, practical skills, and (just as importantly) confidence to effectively apply genAI tools to teaching and learning tasks, with a focus on disabilities and assistive technology accommodations. Participants will use selected generative AI tools to better understand key concepts and applications.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the fundamental concepts behind generative AI, such as what generative AI is (and isn't), how it works, and its built-in shortcomings.
- Differentiate between the ever-increasing plethora of genAI and AI-enhanced tools.
- Demonstrate the ability to create effective text prompts and image prompts.
- Describe at least four best practices that address genAI issues such as equity and access for all students, privacy, bias, and ethical use.
- Apply a methodology for determining whether a task is best supported by generative AI tools or traditional "fixed function" assistive technology tools.
- Explain how schools, agencies, or organizations can identify their genAI needs and make plans for improvement.