UAE Innovates with Inclusive Education Model
The UAE's New Model for Supporting Invisible Disabilities
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new inclusive education model aimed at supporting students with invisible disabilities and those with special educational needs (PoD). The innovative EdTech platform, Speedy Labs, has already been launched in two schools – Dubai Caramel School and Maplewood Canadian International School – helping educational institutions provide support tailored to the individual needs of their students.
Introducing the New Platform
The Speedy Labs platform was developed in accordance with the regulatory frameworks of the UAE's educational authorities – the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (Adek), and the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA). This AI-based solution aims for early detection, intervention, and the provision of personalized learning experiences. Special attention is given to students struggling with learning difficulties, such as ADHD, autism, or other developmental needs.
As a result of the collaboration between Dubai-based Knowledge Hub EdTech and SpEd@school, which offers special educational solutions, the new program marks a significant advancement in inclusive education.
The founder and CEO of the Knowledge Hub explained that the pilot program allows for testing the platform in real classroom settings, enabling fine-tuning prior to wider school implementation. Students receive personalized learning plans that consider their learning pace, preferred styles, and cognitive abilities.
How Does It Assist Parents?
Families play a crucial role in education, thus the Speedy Labs platform aims to make learning more structured, interactive, and enjoyable for both students and parents. The platform offers the following features:
1. Detailed reports on student progress, including literacy, numeracy skills, cognitive development, and motor skills achieved.
2. Gamified learning tools that make learning more playful.
3. Sensory labs that help maintain children's interest and motivation, even outside the classroom.
Data-Driven Learning Plans
One of the biggest challenges in modern education is that traditional assessment systems do not always provide a comprehensive view of students' learning journeys. AI-based solutions, like Speedy Labs, allow for the analysis of past performance data, identification of strengths and weaknesses, and creation of personalized learning paths accordingly.
The president of Zoho Corp. for the Middle East and Africa states that AI can track student progress over time and develop speech therapy plans tailored to individual educational needs.
How Does the System Work?
The system utilizes local AI models and open-source large language models (LLM), enabling educational institutions to implement cost-effective applications. The platform is capable of real-time performance analytics, identifying efforts, and providing personalized feedback for educators.
According to Kishore Dharmarajan, CEO of SeoSouq.com, the technology enables education to be personalized, ensuring that each student can build on their individual strengths.
The Role of AI in Special Education
Medical experts suggest that AI can revolutionize special education. Students with special educational needs often face discrimination and limited educational opportunities, but AI-based platforms can help reduce these barriers.
A psychiatrist at Abu Dhabi Medeor Hospital suggests that artificial intelligence can aid in the early detection of invisible disabilities and the initiation of appropriate interventions, which can be crucial for long-term success.
Summary
The new educational model introduced by the UAE is a huge step toward inclusive education, ensuring that students with special educational needs receive the best possible support. Innovative platforms like Speedy Labs, powered by AI-driven solutions, are able to provide personalized learning experiences, benefiting students, teachers, and parents alike.
