Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Blended Learning for Visually Impaired Students: Pathways to Digital Inclusion
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Artificial intelligence, assistive technology, blended learning, digital inclusion, visual impairmentAbstract
Blended learning combined with Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized inclusive education and made it more accessible for visual impairment (VI) students. However, the implementation of digital tools in mainstream schools of India remains constrained by digital infrastructure, the lack of preparedness of teachers and policy–practice gaps. This mixed methods study analyzes the effect of blended learning (BL) using AI on access, engagement, and inclusion of students with VI in the Delhi – NCR schools. A total of 50 students with visual impairments and 10 teachers and 10 parents were participated in the quantitative data collection, and qualitative data collection was done with 10 teachers and 10 parents. The findings showed that 68% of pupils felt that AI-powered assistive tools would be helpful when learning at their own speed, while just 32% said that their teachers were well-trained to use accessible digital platforms when learning. AI powered blended learning positively increases learner autonomy, engagement and digital inclusion when embedded in inclusive teaching pedagogies and teacher professional development. The study suggests that enhancing teacher training, implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and making sure that AI-powered assistive technology is accessible to all students can help create inclusive and accessible learning environments.
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