A structured, inclusive programme supporting communication, learning, independence, and wellbeing.
AI can significantly enhance communication, learning, independence, and creative expression for individuals with additional support needs. This course introduces AI tools in a safe, accessible, and empowering way, ensuring participants and carers understand how to use them confidently and responsibly.
Audience:
Young people and adults with ASN, parents, carers, support workers, teachers, youth workers, and community volunteers.
Duration:
3 hours (or 3 × 1‑hour sessions with optional sensory breaks)
Learning Outcomes:
Participants will be able to:
Understand what AI is in simple, accessible language.
Use AI tools that support communication, learning, and daily life.
Recognise safe and unsafe AI use.
Apply AI to build independence, confidence, and creativity.
Support carers and families in using AI responsibly.
Three modules build from understanding to practical use to safety and independence.
This module introduces AI using simple language, visual examples, and hands‑on demonstrations.
Key Topics
What AI is (explained through everyday examples)
AI in daily life: phones, games, voice assistants, translation
How AI helps with communication and learning
Myths vs. reality (AI is not a person, not emotional, not always right)
ASN‑Friendly Examples
Voice assistants helping with reminders
AI reading text aloud
AI helping with spelling or writing
AI turning speech into text
AI helping with emotional expression through visuals or prompts
Learning Activities
Icebreaker: “Where do you see smart technology in your day?”
Show‑and‑tell: Demonstrate AI reading a text aloud or generating a picture.
Group discussion: “What would you like AI to help you with?”
Take‑Home Actions
Try a voice assistant for reminders
Explore text‑to‑speech tools
Identify one daily task AI could make easier
This module focuses on real tools that support communication, learning, independence, and creativity.
Core Use Cases
Communication: speech‑to‑text, text‑to‑speech, symbol‑based communication
Learning: reading support, writing support, visual explanations
Independence: reminders, schedules, step‑by‑step instructions
Emotional Support: journaling prompts, mood tracking, expression tools
Creativity: art generation, music creation, storytelling
Accessibility: simplified text, visual aids, translation
ASN‑Friendly Tools
AI reading and writing assistants
AI visual explanation tools
AI art and music generators
AI translation and symbol‑support tools
AI planning and scheduling apps
Learning Activities
Hands‑on exercise: Create a visual schedule or checklist using AI.
Creative workshop: Generate artwork or a short story using AI.
Scenario practice: Use AI to simplify a difficult text or instruction.
Take‑Home Actions
Choose one AI tool to support communication or learning
Create a simple AI‑supported daily routine
Explore creative AI tools for self‑expression
This module ensures participants understand boundaries, safety, and responsible use.
Core Principles
Privacy: do not share personal information with AI tools
Safety: avoid harmful or inappropriate content
Accuracy: AI can make mistakes—always check
Respect: AI should not be used to bully or impersonate
Support: AI helps, but does not replace carers or trusted adults
Transparency: be honest about AI‑assisted work
ASN‑Specific Risks
AI misunderstanding speech or text
Over‑reliance on AI for communication
Exposure to inappropriate content
Difficulty recognising misinformation
Sharing personal details without understanding consequences
Carer and Support Worker Guidance
Choose age‑appropriate, safe tools
Use parental controls and content filters
Support the young person in checking AI outputs
Encourage balanced use (AI + human interaction)
Reinforce digital boundaries and consent
Learning Activities
Risk spotting: Identify unsafe AI scenarios (sharing personal info, harmful content).
Role‑play: What to do if AI gives confusing or upsetting information.
Group reflection: “Who can you talk to if something online feels wrong?”
Take‑Home Actions
Follow a “no personal data into AI tools” rule
Use AI with a trusted adult when unsure
Build a safe AI routine with clear boundaries
A light, accessible assessment reinforces learning.
5–10 easy‑read multiple‑choice questions
2–3 simple scenarios
Group reflection on how AI can support personal goals
Attend full session
Participate in activities
Complete assessment (with support if needed)
This training aims to:
Build digital confidence among individuals with ASN
Support independence, communication, and learning
Reduce digital inequality and exclusion
Empower carers and families with safe AI strategies
Promote ethical, inclusive, and supportive AI use
Strengthen community cohesion through accessible technology