In this episode, I chat with Dr. Gina Tesoriero, a researcher and former middle school special education teacher, about how AI tools like ChatGPT can serve as powerful supports for students with disabilities and neurodiverse learners. You’ll also hear findings from her dissertation research on how young adults with special education experiences are already using AI in creative ways, plus the unique ethical considerations that come up when thinking about AI in special education settings. If you want to understand how to approach AI in special education and start thoughtful conversations with students and families about its use, this episode has you covered!
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Tips for AI in Special Education
- Explore how AI tools can serve as assistive technology for students with disabilities and neurodiverse learners.
- Lead with curiosity instead of accusations when students may be using AI in unexpected ways.
- Recognize that banning AI tools can disproportionately impact students in special education who benefit from them.
- Encourage students to become detectives of their own learning by discovering how AI supports their individual needs.
SPONSORED BY MY QRG USING AI CHATBOTS TO ENHANCE PLANNING AND INSTRUCTION
This episode is sponsored by my quick reference guide Using AI Chatbots to Enhance Planning and Instruction, published by ASCD and ISTE. It’s full of quick tips educators and Amazon almost always has it on sale. Just search for me, Monica Burns on Amazon to see all of my books and quick reference guides. But please remember that there are two authors named Monica Burns on Amazon and I’m pretty sure you’ll be able to tell the difference between our books. Just head to Amazon, search Monica Burns, and you’ll find my quick reference guide Using AI Chatbots to Enhance Planning and Instruction. Check it out here >>
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Click to see the transcript
EPISODE RESOURCES
- Connect with Dr. Gina Tesoriero on LinkedIn
- ChatGPT (Chatbot)
- Claude (Chatbot)
- AI Literacy Toolkit for Families (Co-created by Common Sense Media and Day of AI)
- 4 Easy Ways to Introduce AI Chatbots to Students (Blog Post)
- How AI Is Changing Assistive Technology in Education (Podcast Episode)
- 12 Tools for AI Homework Help to Support Students After School (Blog Post)
- How AI Can Personalize Learning in Your Classroom (Podcast Episode)
- Practical AI Literacy Tips for Educators and Families (Podcast Episode)



