AI & Accessibility in Education – The 2024 Blaschke Report
CoSN in partnership with CAST recently released a comprehensive report entitled “AI and Accessibility in Education”. The report examines the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance educational accessibility and support for students, particularly those with disabilities. As AI technologies like Generative AI (GenAI) and assistive tools become increasingly prevalent in educational settings, it is crucial to understand both their benefits and limitations.
The AI and Accessibility in Education report emphasizes that the integration of AI in education holds significant promise for enhancing accessibility and support for all students. By placing a strong emphasis on inclusive design, implementing comprehensive policies and fostering ongoing professional development, educators have the opportunity to create a future where every student, regardless of their background or abilities, can thrive and reach their full potential through the thoughtful integration of AI. An executive summary of the report is available at https://www.cosn.org/2024-blaschke-executive-summary/. The full report serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, district leaders and policymakers, providing insights into the benefits and challenges of AI in education and offering practical strategies for its effective and ethical implementation enabling accessibility. You are welcome to download the complete CoSN/CAST “AI and Accessibility in Education” report at https://www.cosn.org/tools-and-resources/resource/blaschke-report-ai-accessibility-in-education/.
The CoSN/CAST “AI and Accessibility in Education” Report was made possible through the support of The Blaschke Fund, which was created by CoSN to support emerging leaders in education technology policy and advocacy. This memorial fund honors the late-industry giant, Charles Blaschke, who conducted pioneering research and analysis on the ever-changing U.S. education landscape for over 50 years. The Blaschke funded “AI and Accessibility in Education” Report was prepared by Fernanda Pérez Perez, 2024 Charles Blaschke Scholarship Fellow.
CoSN/AASA EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series
CoSN, AASA, and edWeb.net co-host an online edLeader Panel broadcast series, sponsored by ClassLink, to help superintendents, district and school leaders and teachers connect and collaborate. Participants can join the live event or view recordings and podcast versions starting a day or two after the live broadcast.
The upcoming November 11, 2024 (5:00 pm Eastern Time) edLeader Panel broadcast is titled “Leading and Leveraging Artificial Intelligence Tools Within K-12 School Districts”. Three leading-edge superintendents share how they continue to lead the effective uses of AI within multiple school functions, including school operations, as well as in teaching and learning, while also dealing with the challenges that AI can present. You are invited to learn more and register for free at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241111/.
If you missed the October 14, 2024, broadcast on Cybersecurity in School District Settings: A District Leadership Approach, you are welcome to sign up for free to view the recording and/or listen to the podcast at https://home.edweb.net/webinar/supers20241014/.
CoSN 2025 Conference:
The CoSN 2025 Conference is going to take place in Seattle, Washington from March 31 through April 2, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Seattle. You can learn more about CoSN 2025 and view the list of Pre-Conference Events and the CoSN 2025 “Schedule at a Glance” agenda at: https://www.cosn.org/cosn2025/
CoSN Membership:
If you, your school or district would like more information about joining CoSN or getting more involved with CoSN, please contact membership@cosn.org.