How Generative AI Can Enhance Accessibility in Teaching and Learning
As educators in this modern world, creating an inclusive learning environment should now be at the top of our list. Our goal should always be for all students to thrive.
Ensuring that course content, communication, and assessments are accessible can be time-consuming, especially for busy faculty.
That’s where generative AI can make a meaningful difference. When used thoughtfully, AI tools can help you design more inclusive and flexible learning experiences that meet diverse needs.
Below are ways AI can enhance accessibility in your courses without requiring advanced technical skills or extra tools.
Generate Alternative Text for Images
Alt text (alternative text) is important for learners who use screen readers. It describes images so that learners with visual impairments can access the same information.
How to use AI:
Upload or describe an image to tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, or Canva’s AI assistant and ask for help to create a concise, descriptive alt text.
Prompt example:
“Write alt text for an image showing a student doing a math problem on a chalkboard"
Tip:
Keep AI-generated alt text concise and fact-based. Review it for accuracy and clarity before posting to your course.
Simplify Complex Texts for Readability
Some course required readings are written at very high reading levels, which can pose barriers for students with learning disabilities, English language learners, or cognitive differences.
How to use AI:
Summarize complex material using accessible language without losing meaning.
Prompt example:
“Summarize this 1000-word article for an audience reading at a 9th-grade level, keep key concepts intact.”
Use it for:
Reading guides
Lecture summaries
Study aids
Provide Transcripts and Captions
Audio and video content can be challenging for students who are deaf, hard of hearing, or prefer text-based study aids.
How AI helps:
AI transcription tools (like Otter.ai, or Zoom’s built-in AI assistant) can generate transcripts and captions automatically. You can then check them for accuracy before using in your course.
Bonus: Transcripts benefit all students by making it a searchable study material and aiding in comprehension for non-native speakers.
Generate Clearer Instructions and Rubrics
Ambiguous directions can disadvantage students who process information differently or rely on assistive technology.
How AI helps:
AI can rewrite your assignment instructions for clarity and consistency.
Prompt example:
“Rewrite these assignment directions to be clearer, more step-by-step, and easier to follow for students with ADHD.”
Create Inclusive Examples and Scenarios
Representation matters. AI can help you diversify the examples, names, and perspectives in your teaching materials, helping all students feel seen.
Prompt example:
“Generate a scenario about teamwork in healthcare using culturally diverse names and avoiding stereotypes.”
Always review outputs to ensure inclusivity and accuracy, but AI can speed up the brainstorming process.
Support for Neurodiverse Learners
AI tools can help students and instructors organize information, manage tasks, and summarize content. For example, learners with ADHD, dyslexia, or executive function challenges will learn more easily.
Examples:
Summarize discussion posts into key themes.
Turn long instructions into numbered steps.
Create visual outlines or mind maps using AI-powered design tools.
Instructors can use these strategies and but should also encourage students to use them responsibly.
Translate and Adapt Content for Multilingual Learners
AI translation tools (like DeepL or ChatGPT with multilingual support) can help make your materials more accessible for students who are non-native English speakers.
Prompt example:
“Translate this discussion question into Spanish and simplify it for an intermediate English learner.”
It’s not always perfect, so make sure to verify its accuracy, but it provides a valuable starting point for inclusion.
Conclusion
Generative AI isn’t a replacement for accessibility design. It should be as a support tool that makes inclusion easier to achieve. Integrating AI into your workflow can help you save time and also enhance the learning experience for all students.
Accessibility isn’t about compliance. Accessibility is about equity, empathy, and connection. And now, with the help of AI, creating inclusive learning environments has never been more possible.
