By Keith Senzer

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as it pertains to schools and education has been a controversial topic. The ease with which this powerful tool can generate research papers, write essays, complete math homework, and seemingly do the brainwork for students has caused a mix of curiosity and consternation among parents, educators, and administrators—all of whom are stepping gingerly into this brave new world.

To date, the worst fears have not been realized. Thanks to tech tools that flag plagiarism, students have learned to be skittish about out-and-out copying; instead, they’re using AI to support learning rather than replace it. When used with the right intention, AI is proving to be a powerful tool to assist with the demanding, time-consuming tasks that bedevil many kids but are particularly challenging for those with learning and attention challenges.   

Following are 10 AI Tools that are effective in supporting these students in areas such as task management, organization, study skills, note-taking, communication, and more. Pricing varies, with many of these platforms offering a free version with the ability to pay for a more robust version.

1. ChatGPT: One of the first AI apps to become widely available, ChatGPT removes the “heavy lifting” and allows students to formulate their thoughts and create outlines to help produce quality work. For example, it can develop an outline for a paper without the student having to figure out the sequence and organization.  
2. Goblin Tools: This is a multi-tool app, comprised of several tools that are particularly helpful for neurodiverse learners who may be overwhelmed by big assignments and long-term projects. For example, “Magic ToDo” breaks down projects and papers into manageable steps to complete sequentially over time. It can also be used to write professional e-mails to professors and employers.
3. Quizlet: For kids who lack effective study skills, Quizlet creates study materials from notes, lectures, and presentations to help them prepare for tests and exams. Examples include outlines, study guides, flashcards, and mini-practice tests.
4. QuizGecko: QuizGecko is another study tool to help boost learning by generating practice questions in various formats. With Quizlet, the student has to upload the material; with QuizGecko, the student can simply type in a topic and a quiz will be created. 
5. Khanmigo: This AI tool was developed by Khan Academy, the leading provider of free online courses and tutorials for students of all ages. Khanmigo is their AI-powered tool that allows students to customize lessons and test their knowledge, providing a user experience that is conversational and akin to working with a real-life tutor.
6. Otter ai: Students who have trouble following lectures and keeping up with note-taking will find Otter ai particularly useful. This records lectures and transcribes them into notes, allowing students to fully engage in the presentation and review the notes later. Moreover, Otter can generate summaries, and key takeaways, and answer questions about the lecture. 
7. Grammarly: With Grammarly students have a personal writing assistant that corrects spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure professional quality essays, papers, emails, and other written communications. While Grammarly won’t write their paper for them, it will make sure the finished product is well-written and error-free.   
8. Stepwise Math: Students can personalize math support with this app that provides AI tutoring for all math subjects. In addition to helping with regular coursework and homework, it’s a valuable tool for students as they prepare for placement tests and other high-stakes exams. It supports learning by providing step-by-step feedback as students work through problems.
9. Slidesgo: This free AI app takes the anxiety out of developing slide presentations.  Students provide the basics (e.g., topic, style and tone preferences) and bam, there’s a PowerPoint presentation. Next, use the editing tools to make any changes you want, including to the layout and individual images. In a short time you’ve developed a slide show of your making enabled by AI, which has done the heavy lifting
10. Notion: This tool allows students to organize tasks, time, and reminders using AI to anticipate needs and help plan for them to completion of projects. Think of it as the AI version of outlines, post-it notes, and calendar reminders all in one place! Its communication capabilities are useful for collaborative projects, but it also works well for individuals who struggle with executive function issues.

As AI continues to evolve, these tools will improve and others will become available. By taking the drudgery out of school work, AI helps to engage all students, but can be especially helpful for those with learning and attention challenges. These tools can help level the playing field by helping struggling students thrive and learn in creative and engaging ways. When learning is fun and streamlined, kids are likely to be more successful and confident at school. And who doesn’t want that for their child?

Keith Senzer is the Coaching Manager for Order Out of Chaos, an organizing consulting firm specializing in student organizing. He is also the founder of PowerShift Coaching, as well as the host of Social Emotional Learning workshops for youth nationwide, and “TeenSpeak,” a podcast for teens to share their experiences and discuss strategies to overcome adversity.