The school initiated a series of training sessions for Teaching Assistants (TAs) on the application of AI technology in the classroom,culminating in a focus on personalised learning experiences.
In one of these sessions, a creative approach was introduced—using AI to create adaptive, personalised adventure scenarios to bolster traditional lesson plans. The lesson was based on volcanoes. In an interactive digital story, the AI seamlessly integrated a student’s love for cars with educational content about volcanoes. For example, the story might involve a race car needing to escape an erupting volcano, taking the user through crucial decision points. Here, the adventure would pause and delve into topics the student was struggling with, like the concept of magma.
The AI tool enabled TAs to tweak the story's focus dynamically to zero in on specific learning outcomes. One TA implemented the approach with her Year 10 class and received overwhelmingly positive feedback. "Just created this with my Year 10's... We had an opportunity to discuss the images on the board which allowed us time to complete this, the 3 of them loved it," she reported.
The system was so versatile that it could also be used as a whole-class activity. Teachers could project the adventure on the whiteboard,allowing the entire class to vote at decision points, thereby making the learning experience communal yet individualised.
The scenario in this case study is genuine and based uponreal events and data, however its narration has been crafted by AI to uphold astandardised and clear format for readers.
Key Learning
AI can substantially augment support for SEN students by personalising learning experiences.
The involvement of TAs in the AI training and implementation process is crucial for the initiative's success.
The technology is versatile enough to be adapted for both individual and group learning, making it a valuable tool for inclusive education.
Risks
Over-reliance on AI could inadvertently reduce human interaction,which is vital for the social development of SEN students.
There is the potential risk of data privacy concerns, especially when tailoring learning to individual students.
The effectiveness of AI integration requires continuous professional development for teaching staff to keep up with evolving technology.
