Veronica Longo

This study aims to explore teachers' narratives on implementing AI-based learning tools for students with severe disabilities. The objective is to understand the challenges faced, the impacts on students, and the experiences of teachers using these technologies in special education settings. A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews to gather data from 16 certified special education teachers with experience in using AI-based learning tools. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure a diverse range of perspectives. Interviews were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns in the data. Three main themes emerged from the analysis: implementation challenges, the impact on students, and teacher experiences. Teachers reported significant technical difficulties, inadequate training, and limited administrative support as major challenges. Despite these issues, AI tools had a positive impact on student engagement, motivation, learning outcomes, social interaction, and behavioral changes. Teachers experienced a range of emotions, from initial skepticism to eventual acceptance, and highlighted the importance of peer support and professional growth. The study underscores the transformative potential of AI in special education, while also identifying critical areas that need attention for successful implementation. The integration of AI-based learning tools in special education offers significant benefits for students with severe disabilities, including enhanced engagement, improved learning outcomes, and better social interactions. However, successful implementation requires addressing technical issues, providing comprehensive training, securing administrative support, and fostering a culture of feedback and reflection. Future research should focus on long-term impacts, comparative effectiveness of different AI tools, and the development of effective training programs. Educational institutions must prioritize these areas to maximize the positive impact of AI technologies in special education.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Sensory Integration Therapy (SIT) in improving emotion regulation and critical thinking skills in individuals with hearing impairments. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 30 participants (15 in the intervention group receiving SIT and 15 in the control group). The intervention consisted of ten 75-minute SIT sessions over a two-month period. Emotion regulation and critical thinking were measured at three time points: pre-intervention, post-intervention, and two-month follow-up, using the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal (WGCTA), respectively. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests. Significant improvements in emotion regulation were observed in the intervention group from pre-intervention (M = 95.45, SD = 12.78) to post-intervention (M = 81.32, SD = 11.45), and maintained at follow-up (M = 82.67, SD = 12.01). The control group showed no significant changes. For critical thinking, the intervention group’s scores increased significantly from pre-intervention (M = 28.67, SD = 5.23) to post-intervention (M = 36.78, SD = 4.89), and remained high at follow-up (M = 35.54, SD = 4.67). The control group’s scores did not change significantly. ANOVA results indicated significant main effects for time and group for both variables (p < .001), with significant interaction effects (p < .001). Sensory Integration Therapy significantly improves emotion regulation and critical thinking in individuals with hearing impairments, with effects sustained over a two-month follow-up. These findings support the use of SIT as an effective intervention for enhancing cognitive and emotional skills in this population.