When the world is talking about AI, why should our teachers stay away?
For educators teaching students with visual impairments, exploring AI begins with practical questions: Can I make my lessons more accessible? Can I create a worksheet in a learner’s language? Can I describe an image so that a student can engage with its content?
Through Vision Empower’s AI Skilling Programme, part of the AI Innovation and Inclusion Initiative (A4I) supported by Microsoft CSR, pre-service and in-service special educators are learning to use AI effectively, thoughtfully and responsibly.
Hands-on, interactive sessions introduce educators to AI and assistive tools. They explore practical applications such as creating lesson plans and worksheets, generating image descriptions, developing audio lessons and translating learning materials into regional languages.
Using AI to Create Accessible Learning Resources
AI can help teachers adapt learning materials to different learners’ needs and make classroom content more accessible. Through practical activities, educators explore how these tools can support lesson planning, the creation of individualised learning materials, and the development of engaging learning activities.
But learning to use AI also means learning what to question. Teachers explore how to check AI-generated outputs, recognise errors and bias, protect privacy, and decide when a tool or resource is appropriate for a particular learner.
The aim is not simply to introduce new technology, but to help educators make informed choices about how and when to use it in their teaching.
Building AI Skills Among Educators Across India
Delivered through a hybrid format combining online and in-person sessions, Vision Empower’s AI Skilling Programme has so far reached 571 participants from 13 states and Union Territories.
We will continue to offer workshops that help teachers strengthen their skills, explore new tools with purpose, and build confidence in using technology to create more learning opportunities for their students.
What Educators Say
“I particularly appreciated the focus on creating accessible learning resources for diverse learners.”
– Chandrajit Nayak, Special Educator
School for the Blind, Ranipatana, Balasore, Odisha
“I learned how AI can support special education through lesson planning, creating individualized learning materials, developing activities, and adapting content according to students’ needs.”
– M. Shanthakumar, Special Educator
Sree Siddaganga School for the Blind, Tumkur, Karnataka
“The hands-on practice and step-by-step explanations were very helpful and easy to follow.”
– Diparna Das, Special Educator
Ramakrishna Mission Blind Boys’ Academy, Narendrapur, West Bengal
By equipping educators with practical AI skills and encouraging thoughtful, responsible use of technology, Vision Empower is working towards a future where more students can access meaningful, engaging and inclusive learning experiences.