Empowering Learners with Flexible Support Tools Through AI

Studies consistently show that assistive technologies improve literacy and inclusion for students with disabilities. According to studies conducted in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022, students with disabilities who use assistive technologies like AI-driven text-to-speech or speech recognition tools are more likely to participate and succeed in inclusive classroom settings. A 2020 study published in Assistive Technology Outcomes and Benefits, Volume 14, highlights how AI-powered technologies like word prediction software and screen readers support literacy and improve spelling accuracy for students with physical disabilities. These studies collectively underscore the positive effects of AI-powered assistive technology on students’ ability to engage in classroom activities and their overall academic success in inclusive environments. However, access alone isn’t enough—ongoing training for educators and students ensures effective implementation (see more in the COSN and CAST Blaschke Report: AI and Accessibility in Education). Most notably, AI tools empower students with the tools to personalize their learning environments:

• Immersive Reader and Chrome Reading Mode: For starters, it is always helpful to ensure students have access to accessibility features natively built into their 1:1 devices, such as the ability to toggle on device accessibility features like select and speak, text-to-speech, and others. Additionally, there are a number of extensions and additional web tools that can provide students with further customization of text, display, and language. Microsoft Immersive Reader is a powerful tool designed for students with learning differences in reading (like dyslexia) as well as support for vision needs and English language learners. With text-to-speech, translation, color contrast, spacing options, and line-focus features, it enables all students to engage deeply with reading materials. Dictionary and picture dictionary features provide multiple means of representation for multilingual learners and students who need alternatives to written text. Immersive Reader also provides a helpful breakdown of syllables in words and parts of speech. Integrated across Microsoft products, including Word, OneNote, and Edge, it’s also available in many other educational apps and websites, including the Canvas learning management system, making it an excellent, no-cost resource for making reading accessible to everyone. There’s even a version of Immersive Reader available as a free extension for Google Chrome. Chrome and Google users can also leverage Chrome Reading Mode on any device where the Chrome browser is available. Apple users can leverage a number of device settings to provide customization. Reader Mode can help remove distractions and provide customization for font, size, color, and spacing. Speak Screen and Speak Selection (Spoken Context) can provide text-to-speech support, while other accessibility features like screen distance (protect vision health), low vision settings, and assistive touch (helps with mobility, touch) can be accessed via the accessibility shortcuts menu.

   

• Natural Reader and Speechify: In addition to the tools listed above, Natural Reader is a fantastic text-to-speech tool for students who need reading support and want to have different options for the voices within a single text-to-speech tool. The free version allows students to listen to content, while the paid version adds features like additional voices and language options. Plus, the tool can provide text-to-speech with PDFs. Similarly, an alternative option for text-to-speech, audio listening is the freemium tool Speechify, which can also be accessed with the free Chrome extension. In the free version, students can select from 10 reading voices and convert digital text to audio material in a few clicks.

   

• Grammarly: AI-powered writing assistants can help remove barriers in action, expression, and communication. Grammarly supports students’ writing by offering real-time grammar and spelling suggestions. For students with dyslexia or learning disabilities, Grammarly’s free version helps them produce clearer, error-free work, building confidence and writing skills along the way. Students who may have a lot to say, but who experience writer’s block or spelling challenges can use the tool to overcome these obstacles, building their writing muscle and finding their voice in the process. Tools like Wordtune and ProWriting Aid can provide similar features.

   

• Read&Write by Texthelp: A suite of tools for reading, writing, and comprehension, Read&Write by Texthelp includes text-to-speech, Co:Writer word prediction, and a picture dictionary, perfect for students with learning differences. The translation features available in the tool can also be helpful for English language learners.

Removing Barriers to Demonstrating Understanding

AI unlocks new ways for students to express knowledge, aligned with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. Offering purposeful options like voice typing, multimedia projects, and AI-enhanced tutors ensures every student has meaningful ways to showcase mastery.

• Voice Typing: Voice typing is an easy, cost-effective way to provide students with another accessible means to demonstrate their understanding of a topic or in writing a paper, especially if students experience writer’s block, face barriers in spelling, or need to talk through their ideas. Tools like Google Docs voice typing, Chromebook dictation, Microsoft dictation, and Apple dictation enable students with mobility or writing challenges to participate in literacy tasks.

   

• Adaptive Tools and Tutors: AI tools hold tremendous potential as personalized tutors, capable of coaching students through problem sets, providing immediate feedback to redirect learning, and much more. Adaptive learning tools with AI-enhanced features have been available for years, helping students access feedback, remediation, and challenges tailored to their needs. These tools have also helped alleviate some of the workload for teachers by quickly delivering targeted practice and guidance. However, the emergence of more advanced AI tools has introduced personalized tutors that offer a broader range of responsive and adaptive learning experiences. Personalized AI tutors like Mizou (free), SchoolAI (freemium), and MagicSchool (freemium) act as versatile learning assistants, helping students conduct research, receive feedback, access remediation or extension activities, clarify vocabulary, or even practice language skills through translanguaging text and audio between their preferred language(s) and English. These tools provide tailored academic support based on student input, offering accessible ways to demonstrate understanding and build skills in challenging subjects. They are particularly beneficial for students who need extra guidance to break down complex topics, work through assignments, or address lingering questions. Additionally, adaptive AI-powered platforms like Quizizz AI (freemium) can create personalized problem sets based on student performance, deliver explanations and feedback, and provide teachers with valuable data to inform instruction. Quizlet AI’s Q-Chat (freemium)

   

• Adobe Express and Canva: AI-powered multimedia tools let students demonstrate understanding creatively, encouraging higher-order thinking and engagement. AI-powered tools like Adobe Express (free for school districts) and Canva (free for school districts) are transforming how students express themselves creatively, removing barriers to learning and making higher-order thinking more accessible. These tools enable students to create multimedia projects with the aid of AI, providing multiple pathways to demonstrate their understanding of learning goals while fostering creativity and engagement. AI image generators, AI video generators, and AI animations can help students bring their ideas to life.

   

Conclusion: A Future of Accessibility Powered by AI

AI is more than just a technological advancement; it’s a powerful tool reshaping accessibility in education. From real-time transcription to personalized learning support, AI is enabling educators to build more inclusive, adaptive classrooms. One of the best parts? Most of these tools are affordable, easy to integrate, and bring powerful accessibility solutions within reach for all schools. By embracing these tools, educators can ensure all students are provided with a learning environment to support their needs, giving every learner the chance to succeed. When it comes to accessibility, we can all do better when we know better. Let’s level up our accessibility best practices and leverage AI to build a brighter, more accessible future for every student. When we design with accessibility in mind, especially from the beginning, we honor our learners’ differences and celebrate their uniqueness.