Artificial Intelligence and the Intersectionality of Disability

Digging deeper on "Artificial Intelligence and the Intersectionality of Disability" by Dieker and Zaugg. There are several barriers to AI accessibility for people with disabilities that I took away (a lot of these concerns should start to sound familiar as they apply to all historically marginalized groups):

1. Bias and Misrepresentation:

- AI systems often inherit biases present in the data they are trained on. If the training data does not adequately represent people with disabilities, the resulting AI can perpetuate existing biases.

2. Lack of Inclusivity in Development:

- A significant barrier is the underrepresentation of individuals with disabilities in the professionals who are developing AI (only 2% of people in PhD programs identify as having a disability for example). This lack of diversity means that the specific needs and challenges of people with disabilities might not be fully understood or prioritized in the design of AI tools.

3. Accessibility and Usability:

- Many AI tools and platforms are not designed with accessibility in mind. This can result in features that are difficult or impossible for people with certain disabilities to use. Following guidelines for accessibility such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is a good start.

4. Cost and Affordability:

- AI tools may come with costs, which can be a barrier for individuals with disabilities, who may already face financial challenges.

5. Legal and Regulatory Challenges:

- Existing legal frameworks may not fully address the rights and accommodations required for people with disabilities in the context of AI. There is a need for updated policies and regulations that ensure AI technologies are developed and implemented in ways that are inclusive and equitable.

6. Infrastructure and Technological Access:

- Access to necessary infrastructure, such as high-speed internet, compatible hardware, and up-to-date software, is crucial for leveraging AI tools. People with disabilities, especially those in lower-income brackets or rural areas, may lack access to these essential resources, further widening the digital divide.

7. User Training and Support:

- Effective use of AI tools often requires a certain level of technical literacy. Individuals with disabilities may need additional training and support to fully utilize these technologies. Lack of adequate training resources can hinder their ability to benefit from AI advancements

To address these barriers, it is crucial to:

- Promote Diversity and Inclusion in AI Development: Encourage and support individuals with disabilities to enter fields like computer science and AI development. This can be achieved through scholarships, mentorship programs, and inclusive hiring practices.

- Implement Comprehensive Accessibility Standards: Develop and enforce standards that ensure all AI tools are accessible to people with disabilities. This includes adhering to guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

- Create Affordable AI Solutions: Develop AI tools that are both high-quality and affordable, ensuring they are accessible to individuals with disabilities regardless of their financial situation.

- Update Legal and Regulatory Frameworks: Ensure that laws and regulations keep pace with AI advancements and protect the rights of individuals with disabilities. This includes addressing issues of data privacy, non-discrimination, and accessibility.

- Improve Infrastructure Access: Invest in infrastructure improvements to ensure that all individuals, including those with disabilities, have access to the necessary technology to utilize AI tools.

- Provide Training and Support: Offer comprehensive training and ongoing support for individuals with disabilities to ensure they can effectively use AI technologies. This includes creating accessible training materials and providing personalized assistance as needed.

By addressing these barriers, we can move towards a future where AI technologies are fully inclusive and accessible, enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. To read the full article head here.