A New Way to Know: Using Artificial Intelligence to Augment Learning in Students with Cognitive Disabilities

by Al Jones Jr.

What does it mean to "know" something? What if that person who is often laughed at because they have an intellectual disability could become as smart or smarter than you. Would you be happy for them or think it's not fair? Suppose the same person was taking a test or interviewing for a job with you? What you know has been traditionally defined by the content of an individual's mind; artificial intelligence technology, or AI, has the potential to redefine the notion entirely. In no context are discussions of what it means to know more relevant than those surrounding individuals with cognitive disabilities, unique individuals who struggle with knowing daily. However, the emerging age of AI has opened up new opportunities – new ways for them to know what they've never had access to knowing before. This new way of knowing presents new opportunities and new potentials for them to live normal, independent lives. In A New Way to Know, Dr. Al Jones, Jr. explores the intersection between AI and cognitive disabilities, making an equity-based case for how AI's strategic integration into special education classrooms can revolutionize students' learning outcomes. Filled with refreshing ideas, A New Way to Know promises to spark lively discussions among parents, students, educators, and corporate stakeholders.

214 pages, Paperback

Published August 19, 2020

About the author

Dr. Al Jones, Jr. is an educator who has spent more than 25 years working at the local, state, and federal levels to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. His background includes research and writing in educational policy and regulations, academic outcomes, knowledge management, communications and technology. Holding a Doctor of Education from the George Washington University, Dr. Jones is an associate division director at the Office of Special Education Programs within the U.S. Department of Education.

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Jones does a great job advocating for the use of A1 in the education of students with cognitive disabilities. He compares "regular" students to students with CD and addresses why some parents consider the use of A1 to be cheating. In doing so he explains the concepts of equity vs. equality as well as what "fairness" means. His ideas are research-based and forward thinking.

Think about how students would feel if they could remain in their classrooms to learn in "regular" math class by simply using a calculator. If a student can get the answers using technology, that will prepare him or her for a future career. Gone are the days of rote memorization, clung to by those reluctant to give up the way they've always done it. Once a child learns basic concepts in the early grades, they should be taught to use technology to augment their cognitive abilities. Jones makes a case for A1 usage among this set of students being akin to someone using a wheelchair or glasses.

This book also includes ideas for implementation, funding, and advocacy. Jones includes ideas for parents, educators, administration, and tech companies. He hopes it will start the conversation about how we can best serve our students.

(I am an elementary educator and received this book in a goodreads giveaway.)

[Shani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very enlightening read! My youngest daughter has a delay and has had many issues throughout her school years with learning in general. What fascinated me about this book was that the author was bringing something newer to the table that isn't always embraced. The idea of using AI and robotics to help people with cognitive disabilities should be something that is more commonly use. I appreciate the author's ability to not only give credible information but to explain it in a way that is engaging and understandable. This gives a lot of hope for people who have tried more traditional methods of assistance. It's an encouraging read that I think could sincerely be a game-changer for so many. My hope is that more schools are open to ideas. A fantastic read!

[Lorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an informational book on cognitive disability and it breaks down the different characteristics of learning disabilities. This book illustrates the advances and opportunities how artificial intelligence will help those with CD. I liked that there were a few examples of how some children are benefitting already.