Full course description
Term: Spring 2026
Date: February 3rd, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Online only
Instructor: Pearl Xie
Presented By: Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS)
Description:
Artificial intelligence offers powerful tools to create more accessible, inclusive learning environments—if we use them with intention. In this 60-minute interactive session, participants will explore how AI can enhance accessibility from the very beginning of course and content design. The session blends lecture and hands-on exploration to demonstrate practical ways AI can assist with universal design for learning principles and personalized learning supports. Participants will examine examples of AI-powered tools for captioning, text simplification, image description, and adaptive feedback, while also discussing ethical considerations, data privacy, and the limits of automation in supporting human-centered design.
By the end of the workshop, the instructor will leave with actionable strategies and resources for integrating AI tools into their teaching in ways that promote equity, reduce barriers, and uphold accessibility standards.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Explain how AI technologies can support accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.
- Identify common accessibility barriers in digital learning materials and how AI tools can help address them.
- Evaluate the benefits and risks of AI-powered accessibility tools, including ethical and privacy implications.
- Apply at least one AI-assisted strategy to improve accessibility in their own teaching materials or course design.