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AI-based assistive technologies are well positioned to transform the lives of people with diverse abilities. As they lead this transformation, Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) and accessibility scholars seek to ensure these technologies are built in a responsible way in partnership with the people who need them most.
George Mason University HCI expert Vivian Motti works in neuroinclusion and co-creation—designing systems for and with those who actually use them. Since starting her career at George Mason, Motti and her lab have focused not only on human-centered accessible design, but also on widening the aperture of inclusion to neurodiverse individuals whose disabilities are often hidden. This fall, Motti shared her knowledge at two prestigious conferences.
In Hamburg, Germany, at the AI and Dis/ability: Co-Constitution, Appropriation, and Design conference she spoke on AI disability ethics, focusing specifically on the inclusion of neurodiverse individuals in the design of speech-recognition technologies.
“It was outstanding to present my work and discuss with colleagues from several institutions in Germany and Austria. It was eye-opening and thought-provoking to talk about the promises and perils that AI holds for people with disabilities,” said Motti. “In fact, there are numerous ethical challenges that emerge and require thoughtful debate prior to technology deployment—so that we can ensure that assistive technology is driven by the actual needs of end users, effectively benefiting them.”
Motti’s talk in Germany followed her presentation at the Association for Computing Machinery ASSETS conference, the top event on assistive technology and accessibility, which took place in Denver, Colorado. At this conference, Motti gave a paper examining how the HCI disability community has studied AI-driven conversational interfaces for neurodivergent people with Down syndrome.
“At the intersection of HCI, AI, and critical disability studies is a discussion that has been happening recently about how we design with, not just for, people who rely on thesAe assistive technologies. Current personal assistants exclude users with complex communication needs, who could be the main beneficiaries of such technologies,” Motti explained.
Motti’s goal is not only to study these communities but also to develop supports for them in a responsible and ethical way, paving the way for their increased involvement in STEM through inclusive education. Her work is changing lives and expanding academic and career opportunities for people with unique needs and mixed abilities.