AI and Accessibility
Objective: The worksheet raises learners' awareness of the potential of artificial intelligence to promote inclusion and accessibility. The aim is to understand how technological assistance systems can increase the independence of people with disabilities in everyday life.
Content and methods: The content includes an introduction to AI-supported assistance functions for people with disabilities, basic knowledge about this form of disability, typical barriers in everyday life, and ethical issues relating to data protection, accessibility, and the relationship between human and technical support. This is supplemented by practical case studies and the development of students' own app ideas as an application of what they have learned. The methods include the assignment and analysis of specific AI functions, theoretical impulses with hypothesis formation, empathic role-playing, scenario-based case work, creative project work on app design, and structured reflection and discussion phases on ethical aspects.
Competencies:
- Perspective taking: Developing empathy for the realities of life for people with disabilities
- Media and technology skills: Recognizing AI as a tool for assistive technologies
- Problem-solving skills: Transferring technological knowledge to complex everyday obstacles
- Ethical judgment: Critical examination of social conditions
Target group and level: Grade 8 and above
50 other teachers use this template
Target group and level
Grade 8 and above
Subjects
AI and Accessibility
Recognizing AI in day-to-day life
- Think about where you already encounter AI in your everyday life. Think about situations at school, at home, while playing, shopping, or using your smartphone. Give at least three specific examples.
- Then assign the appropriate support to the correct AI function.
Introduction
Read the information text carefully and consider what difficulties people with the described impairment might have in everyday life.
Understanding Severe Visual Impairment
Severe visual impairment is a condition where an individual cannot see well enough to perform essential tasks, even with corrective lenses. It may be caused by cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or age-related macular degeneration. These conditions can lead to a significant decrease in visual acuity or a restricted field of vision. As a result, affected individuals face difficulties in accessing crucial visual information needed for navigation and environmental interpretation. This impairment often requires adaptive technologies or assistance to overcome daily challenges.
Make assumptions about where people with this impairment might encounter difficulties in their daily lives.
Role play
Work with a partner.
Step 1:
Person A plays a person with the disability described in the background text.
Person B plays a developer of an AI app.
Step 2:
Spend 5 minutes discussing the following questions:
- What is difficult or stressful in everyday life?
- What aids or support are already available?
- What situations could be supported by technology (e.g., AI), even if you haven't developed your own app yet?
Step 3:
Switch roles.
Note down the three most important findings about the needs of people with disabilities. Examples: typical problems, necessary assistance, possible digital support.
Mara's Accessibility Challenge
Mara, a 14-year-old with severe visual impairment, faces daily hurdles in accessing visual information essential for navigation and decision-making. Tasks like reading train timetables or identifying directional signs are daunting without adaptive technologies, limiting her autonomy. Educational settings pose additional obstacles; inaccessible visual aids may hinder her academic progress and future opportunities. Societal perceptions exacerbate these challenges, as assumptions that she constantly needs help can undermine her confidence and ability to perform tasks independently. To address these barriers, it is crucial to enhance accessibility and foster supportive environments, enabling Mara and others with similar impairments to thrive independently.
Analyze case studies and develop solutions
Read the case study carefully. Then consider:
- What specific problems does he/she have in everyday life?
- Which situations are particularly difficult for him/her?
Assignment
Now it's time to get creative yourself. Imagine you are developing your own AI app.
- Think of a suitable name for the app.
- Describe three functions that are particularly important for the app.
- Then explain exactly how this app would help.
Try to write as clearly as possible so that others can understand your idea well.
Lade Zeichenfeld...
Reflexion und Meinungsbildung
Read each statement carefully and decide whether you agree, partially agree, or disagree. Check the appropriate option.
Important:
Justify your decision in one or two complete sentences. There is no “right” or “wrong” answer here. The important thing is that your reasoning is understandable and shows that you have thought about the topic.
| Statement | Agree | Partially | Disagree | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI can significantly reduce barriers in everyday life. | ||||
| AI should be used in all schools to support students with disabilities. | ||||
| AI can completely replace human assistance. | ||||
| All AI programs should be free if they help people with disabilities. | ||||
| When using AI for accessibility, data protection is particularly important. |
Solution for teachers
People with severe visual impairment might encounter problems in everyday life like crossing the street safely because they can't see the traffic signals clearly. They could struggle with reading signs or menus in restaurants, making it hard to order food. Shopping might be difficult since reading labels and finding items can be challenging. Navigating public transportation could be tricky too, as they might not see bus numbers or subway maps. At home, they could have trouble with tasks like cooking, where measuring ingredients and using appliances safely require good vision.
App Name: VisionAssist
Function 1: Real-Time Object Recognition
The app uses the phone's camera to identify objects, signs, and text in Mara's environment. By pointing her phone at a train station timetable or a street sign, the app can read aloud the information displayed, providing Mara with immediate access to essential visual information. This function helps Mara navigate public spaces with greater independence, reducing her reliance on others for assistance.
Function 2: Audio Navigation Guidance
VisionAssist offers turn-by-turn audio navigation, guiding Mara through her surroundings using GPS technology. By inputting her destination, the app provides clear spoken directions, alerting her to upcoming turns, street names, and landmarks. This function empowers Mara to travel independently, enhancing her ability to explore new places and manage daily commutes with confidence.
Function 3: Educational Content Conversion
The app converts visual educational materials into accessible formats, such as audio recordings or braille text. By uploading images or PDFs of textbooks and worksheets, VisionAssist enables Mara to access school content in a format that suits her needs. This function helps ensure that Mara has equal access to educational resources, supporting her academic progress and future opportunities.
Overall, VisionAssist is designed to enhance Mara's independence and confidence by providing essential tools for navigating her environment and accessing information. By minimizing barriers associated with severe visual impairment, the app promotes equality and empowers Mara to engage fully with her surroundings and education.
| Statement | Agree | Partly | Disagree | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI can significantly reduce barriers in everyday life. | ☑ | ☐ | ☐ | AI can help visually impaired individuals access information and navigate environments independently. |
| AI should be used in all schools to support students with disabilities. | ☑ | ☐ | ☐ | AI can provide accessible educational resources, helping students like Mara access the same materials as their peers. |
| AI can completely replace human assistance. | ☐ | ☐ | ☑ | Some tasks still require human interaction and understanding, which AI alone cannot fully replicate. |
| All AI programs should be free if they help people with disabilities. | ☐ | ☑ | ☐ | While accessibility is important, funding and resources are needed to develop and maintain these programs. |
| Data protection is especially important when using AI for accessibility. | ☑ | ☐ | ☐ | Protecting personal data ensures privacy and security for users relying on AI for accessibility. |