"The Impact of Artificial Intelligence as a Tool to Enhance and Improve Communication, Social Interaction, and Creativity for Students with Learning Disabilities"

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of using artificial intelligence (AI) on improving communication skills, social interaction, and creativity among students with learning disabilities in mainstream schools. The sample included 51 participants (40 females and 11 males) who were teachers and educational specialists, most of whom had extensive teaching experience (68.63% had 10 years or more of experience) and held higher qualifications (64.71%). Data was collected via an electronic questionnaire containing 24 items, divided into four main themes: communication skills (pronunciation, vocabulary, expression), social interaction, creativity, and challenges associated with use. The study relied on a descriptive analytical approach, applying a set of statistical methods such as arithmetic means, t-tests, analysis of variance, and correlation coefficients, in addition to factor analysis to examine the latent structure of the questionnaire. The results revealed a moderately positive impact of AI on improving communication skills (with averages ranging between 2.45 and 2.88), with the item "improving pronunciation" recording the highest average (2.88). The results also showed a clear role for AI in enhancing social interaction (with averages between 2.53 and 2.75), especially when using technologies such as virtual reality and interactive robots. In the area of ​​creativity, the averages also recorded moderate levels (between 2.61 and 2.71), indicating that AI can be a tool to support creativity but does not replace direct human guidance. In terms of challenges, "the need for constant supervision" emerged as the most significant obstacle (2.80), while "cost" was the least influential (2.18). Statistical analysis also revealed statistically significant differences in some items according to the level of exposure to AI, with those with simple exposure showing higher ratings for some aspects compared to those with extensive exposure. The study recommends several practical measures to maximize the benefits of AI in teaching students with learning disabilities. These include: developing specialized AI tools that focus on improving language and interaction skills; designing intensive training programs for teachers on the use of these technologies; integrating AI with group activities to enhance social collaboration; and conducting longitudinal research to evaluate the long-term impact of these technologies. It also emphasizes the importance of providing the necessary infrastructure and reducing technology costs to ensure accessibility for all students. These findings provide a practical framework for educators and decision-makers to effectively integrate AI into inclusive education, while taking into account the need to balance the use of technology with maintaining essential human interaction in the educational process.