Key Points:
- The University of Wyoming is utilizing a new CoIEP initiative to enhance AI and human collaboration in addressing challenges in special education.
- The first complex challenge CoIEP will tackle is co-creating and co-evaluating Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities in Wyoming and beyond.
CoIEP: A Multi-Agent System for IEP Development
The University of Wyoming College of Education has developed a mid-fidelity prototype of CoIEP, a multi-agent system powered by large language models (LLMs). This system is designed to streamline the complex process of IEP development by breaking down the step-by-step process of creating core components of IEPs.
How CoIEP Works
CoIEP leverages a team of LLM-powered agents to support educators in creating three required interconnected components of an IEP: the Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance statement, IEP goals, and individualized services and supports. These agents are designed and prompt-engineered to demonstrate the step-by-step creation process and specific elements of each component of an IEP.
Benefits of CoIEP
- Reduces the time and expertise required to analyze student data from various sources, identify student strengths and needs, and design evidence-based instructional practices.
- Supports educators in creating and evaluating core IEP components, providing individualized instruction for students with disabilities.
- Enhances the quality of IEPs and reduces the risk of IEP requirement violations.
- Provides a cost-efficient professional learning tool compared to traditional professional development or on-site coaching.
Pilot Studies and Future Development
The research team plans to conduct a series of pilot studies in Wyoming schools this year to test the effectiveness, usability, and user experience of the mid-fidelity prototype of CoIEP. Pre- and in-service special education teachers and directors across Wyoming and other states will be recruited to participate in these studies.
Conclusion
CoIEP has the potential to make a significant contribution to the research on AI in special education, particularly by providing a promising tool to reduce the excessive workloads of special education teachers and enhance the quality of IEPs for students with disabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is CoIEP?
A: CoIEP is a multi-agent system powered by large language models (LLMs) designed to support educators in creating and evaluating core components of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities.
Q: What are the benefits of CoIEP?
A: CoIEP reduces the time and expertise required to analyze student data, supports educators in creating and evaluating core IEP components, enhances the quality of IEPs, and provides a cost-efficient professional learning tool.
Q: How will CoIEP be tested?
A: The research team will conduct a series of pilot studies in Wyoming schools to test the effectiveness, usability, and user experience of the mid-fidelity prototype of CoIEP.
