AI for Accessibility: Empowering students through technology in education

Join us as we delve into the transformative potential of AI in creating a more inclusive educational environment for all students through assistive technologies. This webinar will focus on how AI technologies can support students in navigating the educational landscape. We'll explore current advancements and limitations in AI and spotlight AI assistive technology tools designed to mitigate academic barriers and foster equal opportunities in learning.

Panellists

Professor Leslie Loble (AM)

Professor Leslie Loble (AM), a recognised leader in public purpose reform, has driven major innovations in education in Australia and the US. Significantly influencing education policy, she’s currently an Industry Professor at UTS and Paul Ramsay Foundation Fellow. Her recent report, Shaping AI and Edtech to Tackle Australia’s Learning Divide, examines using AI in education to reduce learning disparities. Her 20-year tenure as Deputy Secretary in the NSW Department of Education led to key reforms in school funding and teaching quality. In 2022, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her education and public administration contributions.

Fiona Given

Fiona Given brings extensive legal expertise and a valuable perspective to the discussion on disability and communication. With an Arts/Law degree from Macquarie University, Fiona is currently a part-time UTS Research Assistant at the Graduate School of Health. For over 10 years, she has served as a general member of the Guardianship Division of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal and sits on the board for Assistive Technologies Australia. Fiona relies on assistive communication technologies to enhance her communication experience. Her exploration of AI technologies like ChatGPT has revealed the potential benefits of saving time and maintaining professionalism, empowering her to read, check, edit, and authorise outputs that accurately reflect her intended meaning. Fiona's expertise and lived experience uniquely inform discussions on disability, communication, and the transformative power of assistive technology in fostering inclusivity.

Student representatives

We’ll hear from two students, sharing their unique perspectives and experiences with AI as a support tool enhancing their learning journey.

Facilitators: Renee Jones and Elham Hafiz

Renee and Elham work in the Inclusive Practices team in the LX.lab, to ensure that all UTS students can participate fully in learning by improving the accessibility of our digital learning environment and associated teaching practices.