Artificial intelligence-based educational materials designed for students with developmental disabilities will be distributed to schools starting this semester.
The Ministry of Education announced on the 11th that it has developed "Special Education AI and Digital Educational Materials" that account for the learning methods and sensory characteristics of students with developmental disabilities, distributing them to special education settings through the National Institute of Special Education.
These educational materials go beyond simply using digital devices, focusing on lowering learning barriers faced by students with developmental disabilities. The target population includes students eligible for special education, such as those with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder, with 75,317 students covered—representing 62.4% of all special education students.
For students with intellectual disabilities, the materials are structured to enable repeated learning of practical, real-life content. The AI analyzes each student's performance level and presents learning stages in subdivided steps. A key feature is the design that allows students to experience step-by-step achievement.
Functions for students with autism spectrum disorder are also included. The materials provide rich visual cues and simplified screen layouts. Volume control functions were added to reduce sensory stimulation. Alternative communication functions are also provided for students who have difficulty with verbal expression.
The educational materials were developed with a focus on Korean language and mathematics subjects. This year, materials for elementary mathematics grades 3-4 and Korean language grades 5-6 were distributed first, aligned with the 2022 revised special education basic curriculum. The developed materials are provided free of charge.
Student content was created in app format. The user interface was designed so that even students who cannot read text can participate in lessons by selecting pictures or icons. The materials can be used on various mobile operating systems and tablet devices.
The teacher platform is provided through the National Institute of Special Education's "Open Learning Center." The AI analyzes student learning results and communicates to teachers which areas require additional instruction. Teachers can use this to manage individual students' learning pace and progress.
The Ministry of Education plans to expand Korean language and mathematics educational materials to all grade levels by 2028. The ministry also plans to strengthen related training so teachers can understand the digital characteristics of students with developmental disabilities and apply them in instruction.
Education Minister Choi Kyo-jin said, "We will expand special education support to ensure that no one is left behind in learning due to disability."