Early Adopters: Navigating AI Integration in Special Education Teacher Preparation

Abstract

Exploring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education is important as it challenges traditional teaching practices and shapes how educators may approach them in the future. In this article, we document the transformative integration of AI in special education teacher preparation, highlighting how we, as early adopter professors, attempted to navigate this journey, offering practical applications for AI use. Practical applications of generative AI tools include aligning course objectives, developing modules, and creating assignments and assessment measures. Additionally, we describe innovative uses for AI, such as incorporating chatbots in teacher preparation courses, navigating curriculum development, generating case studies, and aligning individualized education program (IEP) goals with curricular standards. We also explore how AI can be employed as a reflective coaching tool for teaching practice. Ethical considerations are emphasized, focusing on transparent communication about AI use and documenting the learning process to humanize assessment experiences and mitigate potential risks.