AI and the IEP
AI and the IEP: From Guardrails to Great Practice with Dr. David Bateman
Artificial intelligence is already changing how special educators approach IEP development—but its potential goes far beyond simply writing IEPs faster.
In this episode, Bob welcomes back Dr. David Bateman, nationally recognized expert in special education dispute resolution and legal compliance, for a practical conversation about moving from AI guardrails to great practice.
David shares what prompted his recent article on AI-assisted IEP development and explains why AI should support—not replace—professional judgment. Together, Bob and David explore how AI can help educators create more individualized IEPs, strengthen the connection between present levels, goals, specially designed instruction, and progress monitoring, and become more effective case managers.
They also look ahead to a future where AI does much more than generate text. Could it help identify students who need human attention, analyze progress-monitoring data, strengthen SDI, and coach educators toward better decisions?
David leaves us with a powerful vision for responsible AI in special education: reduce clerical burden, improve instructional precision, surface risk early, and strengthen—but never replace—professional judgment.
If you're a special educator, administrator, or anyone interested in the future of AI and special education, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
