Resources for Learning About AI Going Into 2024

Since the public release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022, the CIDDL team has been inundated with inquiries about artificial intelligence (AI) use as it relates to preparing personnel and supporting students with disabilities. The CIDDL team has attempted to support the field’s understanding of AI, from everyday considerations for classroom use to emerging topics, policies, and applications. But one of the questions we often get asked is, “How does someone stay up-to-date on AI.” Then, in special education, people usually add “as it relates to students with disabilities.”  We often point people to the CIDDL website, not because we do daily posts on AI but because the team is gathering information from multiple sources, interpreting that information, and then attempting to provide concise and timely guidance. 

As technology researchers, we often have to draw upon sources outside of education to build an understanding of topics. For instance, we might read an academic article in another field or a technical report from AI researchers, interpret information, maybe test something, and then convert it into considerations for the field of special education. Other times, CIDDL team members listen to podcasts, identify key topics, seek primary source material, discuss issues internally or with other technology colleagues, and then develop considerations for the field. Our paths of understanding might seem opaque for people with limited knowledge of the history, theories, and practices that drive innovation, technology, and its adoption in society, education, and special education, which is why this question is always hard to answer. 

Nonetheless, as people are entering winter break and potentially looking for readings or podcasts to catch up on, we are providing you with a list for your consideration. Not all will align with your perspective, but each will provide you with considerations for navigating the future. These are not in any order: