Designing Inclusive AI: Leveraging Universal Design for Learning to Foster Learner Agency and Autonomy

Agents4Science 2025 Conference Submission124 Authors

Keywords: Universal Design for Learning + UDL + AI + Inclusion + Learning + Education

TL;DR: This paper argues that using AI in education through Universal Design for Learning helps teachers remove barriers, foster equity, and build learner agency by aligning tools with inclusive, human-centered design.

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers unprecedented opportunities to personalize learning, provide multimodal access, and expand how students demonstrate understanding. Yet, without intentional design, these tools risk perpetuating inequities, particularly for learners with disabilities and those historically marginalized by educational systems. This paper positions Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a critical framework for integrating AI ethically and effectively. By drawing on evidence of UDL's impact on removing barriers and improving learner outcomes (Browder et al., 2008; King-Sears et al., 2015; McMahon & Firestone, 2024), we propose a UDL-guided AI integration model to amplify equity, agency, and autonomy. Practical classroom strategies, narrative case scenarios, and AI prompt templates are presented to illustrate how educators can leverage technology to foster inclusive, learner-centered environments.

Submission Number: 124