Overview
This episode of The Link Podcast explores the use of AI to support neurodiversity, especially for executive function, accessibility, and educational inclusion, featuring insights from Craig Smith and Staffordshire University staff.
Introduction to AI in Education and Neurodiversity
- AI generates both excitement and concern regarding its applications in education and daily life.
- AI offers new possibilities to "level the playing field," particularly for neurodiverse students and adults.
- Emphasis is on using AI as a tool to support executive functioning and cognitive accessibility.
Executive Functioning, Neurodiversity, and AI
- Executive function is described as the "administration team" of the brain, managing organization, memory, and planning.
- Neurodivergent individuals (such as those with ADHD or autism) often have limited executive functioning resources.
- AI can help automate or delegate tasks to reduce cognitive load and improve productivity.
- Conversational use of AI (like ChatGPT) helps maintain flow and continuity of thought.
Benefits of Conversational AI for Neurodiverse Users
- Speaking authentically to AI allows for personalized support without social anxiety or masking.
- AI can simulate supportive relationships and provide a safe space for practicing social and professional skills.
- Regular interaction with AI helps with task prioritization, social rehearsal, and stress reduction.
Virtual and Augmented Reality in Education
- VR and AR can scaffold and simulate real-world experiences (e.g., public speaking, shopping, or clinical situations).
- Immersive practice in VR prepares students for real-life scenarios and helps reduce anxiety.
- Augmented reality tools (e.g., AI-powered glasses or phone camera functions) provide on-the-spot cognitive support.
Inclusive Education and the Universal Sandpit Project
- The Positive Partnerships project facilitates collaboration between families, schools, and autistic students.
- True inclusion involves understanding and adapting to diverse needs, not segregating or isolating individuals.
- The Universal Sandpit provides free, accessible AI tools for educators to explain concepts at different levels and support inclusive teaching.
Practical AI Use for Students and Educators
- Students should use AI for brainstorming, organizing ideas, summarizing readings, and overcoming writer’s block, not for direct plagiarism.
- Effective use requires providing context and feedback to AI for best results.
- AI should be seen as a co-author or teammate, not a shortcut for critical thinking.
Key Terms & Definitions
- AI (Artificial Intelligence) — Software that can perform tasks requiring human-like intelligence, such as understanding language or recognizing images.
- Neurodiversity — The idea that brain differences like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia are normal variations.
- Executive Functioning — Mental skills for planning, organizing, prioritizing, and managing information and tasks.
- Cognitive Load — The total amount of mental effort used in working memory.
- Augmented Reality (AR) — Technology that overlays digital information onto the real world.
- Virtual Reality (VR) — Computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional environment.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Explore conversational AI tools (like ChatGPT) for organizing daily tasks or study routines.
- Visit the Universal Sandpit for free, inclusive teaching tools.
- Experiment with VR/AR learning or simulation tools where available.
- Provide AI with clear context and feedback to maximize usefulness.
- Reflect on your own learning or teaching needs and consider how AI might support them.