Replicating and expanding the use of artificial intelligence to support special education practice: a mixed-methods investigation

A recent study investigated the utility of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT, in supporting special education practices, specifically focusing on the writing of Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals. The research, involving 111 participants from university programs, compared goal quality in participant-only versus AI-assisted conditions. While AI-assisted goals demonstrated a marginally higher quality, the overall effect was reported as small, indicating limited current practical impact.

Why it matters

This research provides initial insights into the practical application of AI in specialized educational contexts, specifically for administrative and planning tasks. Understanding the current efficacy and limitations of AI tools in such sensitive areas is crucial for shaping future technology integration strategies and resource allocation, balancing innovation with established professional practices.

Key insights

• The study utilized a mixed-methods, counterbalanced, scenario-based design with 111 participants from undergraduate and graduate programs across four universities.
• Participants wrote IEP goals under two conditions: participant-only and participant plus AI assistance.
• Goal quality was assessed using the Revised IEP/IFSP Goals and Objectives Rating Instrument (R-GORI), SMART criteria, expert ratings, and participant feedback.
• AI-assisted IEP goals received marginally higher quality ratings in mean comparisons compared to participant-only goals.
• The observed effect of AI assistance on goal quality was small.
• Mixed-effects models indicated no significant main effect of the AI condition on goal quality.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1916444