AI as an Academic Accommodation for Students with Disabilities

Abstract

Many universities are integrating mainstream AI tools, such as ChatGPT, into formal and pilot disability accommodations. Officially documented policies and informal programs aim to address writing, reading comprehension, note-taking, and organizational constraints faced by students with disabilities. These initiatives align with existing legal mandates for equitable access, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and analogous frameworks worldwide. Faculty remain concerned about academic integrity, data protection, AI reliability, and potential overreliance on technology. Nonetheless, institutions are developing guidelines to preserve learning outcomes while ensuring fairness. The emerging landscape indicates a cautious yet expanding trend toward institutional endorsement of AI-based accessibility solutions.