Artificial intelligence (AI) has brought new capabilities to students with disabilities, allowing them to automate things that prove challenging for them. It can adjust the reading level of text, help students communicate, boost students' writing abilities, and much more.

One way AI stands to improve accessibility in the classroom is through note-taking apps that record lectures and transcribe them. Unfortunately for the students who need them, though, some schools are trying to substitute AI for human note-takers despite the fact that the software is still lacking.

The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team understands the value AI can have for students with disabilities. If your school doesn't provide the accommodations you need, we can help. Contact us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.

The Heat Surrounding AI

From elementary schools to colleges and universities, AI stands to transform the classroom. But the technology has gotten a bad rap, thanks to concerns about students using the tools to write papers and cheat on exams.

Recently, though, colleges have begun to embrace the technology as a free alternative to human note-takers. One app, Otter, records audio and translates it in real-time, freeing students to engage in the class rather than spend time frantically scribbling or typing. Students can use the app on a smartphone to record classes themselves and have the information translated into text in a matter of minutes.

However, note-taking apps threaten to replace valuable tools for students with disabilities. These students are entitled to accommodations, and until recently, schools took on the expense of stationing a human note-taker in classrooms when needed. As schools switch to apps, weaknesses in the technology have emerged.

The Issues with Note-Taking Apps

As AI translation apps have become popular in the college environment, students with disabilities have reason to be concerned. AI still isn't perfect. It isn't even nearly as accurate as the results you get from a human note-taker. Students are then left to try to make out what can often be garbled translations when a human note-taker would have provided a clean copy that students could immediately use.

With an AI translation tool, students may have to spend hours cleaning up. They might even have to ask someone to listen to the original recording if something isn't clear. In that case, it's more of an inconvenience than an accommodation.

How the Lento Law Firm Can Help

It's important that students with disabilities have the accommodations they need. Yes, AI is more affordable for universities, but it's not the best solution for the students who rely heavily on these accommodations.

The Lento Law Firm understands what's at stake as schools shift from human note-takers to technology-based solutions. We can explain your rights and work with you to ensure you get what you need to excel in your studies.

If you're a student whose school isn't providing the accommodations you need, the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team can help. Get in touch with us at 888-535-3686 or provide some details on your situation using our confidential online form.