The University of Alicante has launched the AI-ASD-Assistant, an innovative AI-powered virtual assistant designed to provide support to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their surrounding environments, including families, teachers, and professionals. This pioneering project is led by professors Antonio Carrasco Rodríguez and Esther Heredia Oliva, who aim to improve social and educational inclusion for people with ASD.
The AI-ASD-Assistant, available on the ChatGPT platform, offers personalized, evidence-based guidance across six key categories: general information about ASD, assistance for teachers working with students with ASD, advice for families, direct support for individuals with ASD, and guides for implementing inclusive projects. The tool is designed to help users better understand the disorder and find practical solutions to the challenges of communication, education, and social inclusion.
Currently in the testing phase, the project has received support from families, teachers, and several local ASD associations in the Alicante and Vega Baja areas. Users have found the assistant particularly helpful in navigating the day-to-day challenges of ASD and in fostering more inclusive educational and social environments. Additionally, the tool provides links to further resources and suggests complementary actions that promote inclusion.
This initiative is part of a teaching innovation project funded by the University of Alicante, with backing from professionals like Gemma Morant Alberola, a psychologist from the ASPALI association, and teams from the university’s Student Support Center (CAE) and the Action Tutorial Program (PAT). While the assistant offers valuable information, users are advised to consult with qualified professionals for medical or therapeutic advice.
The project leaders are currently looking for additional families and educators to test the tool and provide feedback, with the goal of refining and improving it. Those interested can contact the team via email at antonio.carrasco@ua.es.
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