ADMINS: Assistants to the disclosure and management of information about needs and support
Tim Coughlan

ADMINS: Assistants to the disclosure and management of information about needs and support

Tim Coughlan, The Open University

Abstract:

The ADMINS project is developing and evaluating a virtual assistant for students who disclose disabilities. This builds on our previous research which identified that the forms and administrative processes used in disability support cause negative impacts on students, including stress, time lost from study, and delays in getting the right support. As an alternative to a static form, a virtual assistant can provide an opportunity for dialogue at the initial stages of accessing support, can answer questions and provide guidance, and can be more flexible and accessible. We have developed ADMINS with a participatory approach, working with disabled students and student support and advisory staff. The project is funded by Microsoft under their AI for Accessibility initiative.

Bio:

Tim Coughlan is a Senior Lecturer in the Institute of Educational Technology at The Open University. His research crosses the areas of Education and Human-Computer Interaction and is focused on the design and evaluation of systems that support inclusion, creativity, and openness in learning.

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