The power of artificial intelligence to make apprenticeship learning more inclusive

Training providers should use all the tools available to enable every learner to succeed, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and those who are neurodivergent.

The power of artificial intelligence to make apprenticeship learning more inclusive

Neurodivergent is the term for someone whose brain works differently to that of a ‘neurotypical’ person. 

Types of neurodivergence include autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia, and they can all affect how an individual processes and understands information. Crossover between neurodivergent conditions is common, meaning many people will display traits – or have a diagnosis – of more than one.

Ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in apprenticeships can transform the way learning is delivered. It enables learners with additional support requirements (such as neurodivergence, speech and communication needs or complex emotional needs) to learn in a way that’s adapted to them.

Here are some of the ways that training providers can use AI to make learning more inclusive.

Tailoring learning experiences

Time and budget constraints mean that tutors can’t deliver personalised, one-to-one training to every learner – but AI tools bring this ideal closer than ever.

Generative AI assistants can act as always-on tutors, on hand for learners to ask questions about the subject material or be guided through how to solve a problem – not just given the answer. 

This carries huge benefits for learners who may learn at a different pace to their peers, require additional help to understand certain subjects, or who find the classroom environment intimidating and like to revisit the material at a quieter time in the day. 

AI tools can also tailor the language they use, to support learners who struggle with reading comprehension, or even support those who speak English as a second language.

Looking to the future, providers will be able to use AI to create individual, fully tailored versions of curriculums for learners with additional learning needs. This means that information can be delivered in the way that learners find easiest to process, making for a totally personalised learning journey from start to finish.

Powering assistive technologies

While the potential for AI to personalise learning is exciting, there are already widely available tools that can make a huge difference for learners with additional support needs.

For example, AI-powered voice technologies such as ClaroRead and Grammarly’s Voice Composer can convert speech to text and vice versa, which can be incredibly valuable for learners who have difficulty with written or spoken communication. 

These technologies can be useful for speech and language therapy too. They can provide real-time feedback on pronunciation and language skills, and enable non-speaking learners to communicate with trainers.

AI-powered software can also read text, describe images and analyse long pieces of research, presenting a summary of the main arguments and conclusions. For learners who are visually impaired, slower at reading or who struggle to understand complex language and ideas, these tools will enable them to access learning material that they may not have been able to engage with.

Improving social skills 

Learners with neurodivergent conditions can struggle to understand the complexities of social interactions, but the integration of AI can transform how interpersonal dynamics are taught.

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT can simulate realistic, back-and-forth conversations. This allows learners to familiarise themselves with different types of interaction and gain experience – without the pressure of real-world situations.

They can also teach and test students on wider skills like active listening and verbal or non-verbal cues, to boost confidence and establish foundational skills that in-person tutors can build on.

Early detection

In addition to directly supporting learners, AI can help training providers to offer more inclusive education across the board. 

These tools can be used to analyse learner performance and behaviour, and alert staff to patterns. This enables them to spot potential issues before they become a bigger problem, and put the necessary support in place. 

Early detection is crucial to making the interventions needed to retain learners and keep them on track to achieve their expected outcomes.

Of course, providers taking this approach should also strengthen their data protection measures. It’s vital to ensure that any AI-powered software is only put to its intended use, and that trainers know not to share sensitive learner data.

You can read more about data privacy and the risks of AI bias in our whitepaper: Navigating the fog of AI: Practical ways to use new technology in the apprenticeship space.

In conclusion:

Next-generation AI tools can enable apprenticeship providers to support learners with special educational needs, disabilities and neurodivergent conditions by:

• Being available 24/7 for learners who need extra time and support 
• Converting speech to text and vice versa, and helping with language development
• Summarising long text for learners who struggle with reading comprehension
• Simulating real-life conversations to help with interpersonal development
• Enabling early detection of learners that are struggling with the programme

Deliver inclusive training with Bud

Bud’s user-friendly interface is designed to be intuitive and accessible for every learner. It enables trainers to closely monitor individual learning journeys, so they can proactively offer support where it’s needed.

Want to know more about how Bud can help you to deliver inclusive training? Book a discovery call here.