AI vs. Best Practices: The Road to Equity Is Closer Than We Think

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding its potential to revolutionize learning experiences for students with disabilities. While traditional best practices have long been the cornerstone of inclusive education, AI offers a new paradigm with unique advantages. It is important that Educational Leaders carefully examine AI and compare it to established best practices, considering their implications for both students with disabilities and general education students

One of the most significant advantages of AI is its ability to provide personalized learning experiences. The transference of teaching directly to the student without error is a huge asset for ALL students. AI can quickly monitor student progress. By analyzing individual student data utilizing AI,, AI-powered tools can tailor content, pacing, and instructional strategies to meet specific needs. ² For students with disabilities, this can lead to increased engagement, understanding, and academic success. ³ For example, AI can adapt to students with visual impairments by providing auditory or tactile feedback, or it can offer additional support for students with learning disabilities by breaking down complex concepts into smaller, more manageable steps. 

AI can facilitate more efficient and effective instruction. Students will have real-time feedback, AI

allows teachers to focus on individualized support and differentiated instruction. This can be particularly beneficial for students with disabilities, who often require more attention and resources. Additionally, AI can identify potential learning gaps and provide targeted interventions, ensuring that no student is left behind. 

It is important to acknowledge best practices in education, while perhaps more traditional, they also offer significant advantages. These practices, which often involve a strong emphasis on human interaction, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity.  They can foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment. For example, best practices often prioritize small group instruction, peer tutoring, and inclusive classroom activities, which can help students with disabilities develop social skills and a sense of belonging.

There perils of Educational Monolithicism that students have endured for the past 3 or 4 generations. One of the primary criticisms of the "best practice" approach is its tendency to ignore the inherent variability and complexity of educational contexts. Students have been the victims to this cult-like behavior. Professionals being told there is only one practice that should be applied to a child's clinical or educational plans often leads to fraudulent practice and false hopes for family. Too often, cult-like leadership insist the notion of a single "best practice" can perpetuate educational inequities. By emphasizing standardized approaches, educators and service providers may inadvertently reinforce existing disparities between students from different backgrounds.

Furthermore, best practices can help to address the ethical and equity concerns that may arise with the use of AI. While AI has the potential to transform education, it is crucial to ensure that it is used equitably and responsibly. Best practices can help to mitigate biases in AI algorithms and to protect student privacy.  

Both AI and best practices offer unique advantages for students with disabilities and general education students. AI can provide personalized learning experiences and improve instructional efficiency, best practices can foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The most effective approach may involve a combination of both, leveraging AI to enhance traditional best practices and ensure that all students have access to a high-quality education. Parents of students with disabilities can also benefit from AI and reduce the possibilities of cult-like programming providing their children with promises that will never come to fruition because validating the practice is the precedent over equitable practice.  By carefully considering the strengths and limitations of each approach, educators, parents, and service can create a more equitable and effective learning environment for all students.