FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Revolutionizing Education: Announcing the AI Institute for Transforming Education for Children with Speech and Language Processing Challenges (Ai4ExceptionalEd)
Research.University, June 3, 2023 – The State University of New York at Buffalo proudly unveils the launch of the AI Institute for Transforming Education for Children with Speech and Language Processing Challenges (Ai4ExceptionalEd). This visionary research project, funded by a $20 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Center for Special Education Research (NCSER), aims to redefine educational possibilities for children with speech and language processing challenges (SLPCs) through innovative AI-based technologies. Ai4ExceptionalEd brings together a distinguished team of researchers from leading institutions across the United States.
Ai4ExceptionalEd’s mission is to develop advanced AI-based tools that improve educational outcomes for children with SLPCs. The project will focus on three key areas:
- Developing AI-based tools for universal early screening: Identifying children with SLPCs is a complex challenge, often resulting in underdiagnosis and delayed interventions. Ai4ExceptionalEd will develop groundbreaking AI-based tools for accurate and efficient early screening. These tools will empower teachers, parents, and healthcare professionals to identify children in need, facilitating timely interventions.
- Creating AI-based tools for individualized interventions: After children with SLPCs are identified, tailored interventions are crucial for their speech and language development. Ai4ExceptionalEd will develop AI-based tools that provide engaging and personalized interventions. These tools will address individual needs, motivating children to actively participate in their own learning journeys.
- Building capacity for research and education in AI and Education for All: Ai4ExceptionalEd recognizes the importance of research, education, and inclusivity in AI and education. The project will provide opportunities for students, researchers, and educators to learn about the transformative potential of AI in improving educational outcomes for children with SLPCs. Ai4ExceptionalEd is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity in AI research and education, with a particular focus on underrepresented groups.
The research conducted at Ai4ExceptionalEd will focus on advancing foundational AI technologies, enhancing our understanding of children’s speech and language development, and serving as a hub for special education stakeholders. Through a paradigm shift in how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) serve children, Ai4ExceptionalEd will bridge the gap in availability and individualized services, ensuring that no child in need is left behind.
The proposed AI Screener will enable universal early screening by analyzing video and audio streams of children’s classroom interactions, providing conventional speech and language measures, and assessing novel automaticity measures. The AI Orchestrator, an extension of the AI Screener, will assist SLPs in administering evidence-based interventions and assessing their effectiveness in meeting each child’s Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) learning targets. These solutions will push the boundaries of self-supervised learning, multimodality perception, learning material enrichment, and real-time processing to address the unique challenges faced by children with SLPCs.
“The launch of Ai4ExceptionalEd represents a transformative step towards empowering children with speech and language processing challenges,” stated the project’s lead researcher. “Through the integration of AI technologies, we can create a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape, providing individualized support for each child’s communication development.”
Ai4ExceptionalEd’s impact reaches beyond the realm of research and development. The project has the potential to revolutionize the identification and treatment of children with SLPCs, empowering them to thrive academically and in their daily lives. By fostering a diverse and inclusive AI research and education community, Ai4ExceptionalEd ensures that every child’s potential is recognized and nurtured.
About Ai4ExceptionalEd: The AI Institute for Transforming Education for Children with Speech and Language Processing Challenges (Ai4ExceptionalEd) is a pioneering research initiative led by the State University of New York at Buffalo. The project, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Center for Special Education Research (NCSER), aims to leverage AI-based technologies to improve educational outcomes for children with speech and language processing challenges. Ai4ExceptionalEd is committed to inclusivity, equity, and empowering every child to reach their full potential. For more information, visit https://Research.University or email ai@research.university
