JOURNAL ARTICLE

Developing Quality IEP Goals in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.

  • Published In: Teaching Exceptional Children, 2026, v. 58, n. 3. P. 156 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Yuan, Chengan; Hart Barnett, Juliet E. 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI), specifically OpenAI's ChatGPT, to assist special education teachers in developing individualized education program (IEP) goals for students with disabilities. It outlines strategies for effectively prompting ChatGPT to generate SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) IEP goals tailored to a student's unique strengths and needs, using a case example of a first-grade student with autism spectrum disorder. The article emphasizes the importance of human oversight, collaborative team review, and alignment with educational standards to ensure AI-generated goals are accurate, individualized, and free from bias. It also discusses challenges such as data privacy, potential algorithmic bias, and the need for ongoing research to evaluate AI’s efficacy and social validity in special education. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Teaching Exceptional Children. 2026/01, Vol. 58, Issue 3, p156
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Education
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0040-0599
  • DOI:10.1177/00400599241239311
  • Accession Number:192009062
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