Purpose
The purpose of this module is to provide information and content related to Instructional Technology in early childhood special education. Aiming to expand the knowledge base and capacity of pre-professionals, educators, and service providers, this module embeds the following topics:
- Foundations of Instructional Technology in ECSE
- Understanding AI and Emerging Technologies
- Policy, Standards, and Guidance
- Instructional Design with Technology
- AI for Assessment and Data Collection
- Family Engagement and Home-Based Supports
- Professional Practice and Ethical Use
- Future Directions

Objectives
As a result of active participation and successful completion of course requirements, students will be able to:
- Analyze and apply instructional technology frameworks (including UDL and developmentally appropriate practices) to design inclusive learning experiences for infants and young children with disabilities.
- Evaluate and integrate AI tools (e.g., TeachFX, ToddlerTalk, MagicSchool.ai) for formative and summative assessment, lesson planning, and family engagement in early intervention and ECSE settings.
- Critically examine ethical, cultural, and practical considerations related to technology use in early childhood programs, including issues of privacy, bias, accessibility, and equitable implementation.
- Design a technology-enhanced intervention plan that embeds IFSP/IEP outcomes into daily routines and demonstrates effective collaboration with families and caregivers using digital tools.
PD Guides
PowerPoints:
Artificial Intelligence and Early Childhood Special Education (Basham & Tuck)
AI and Technology Assisted Method for Data Collection and Scalable Teacher Support (Cunningham & Van Camp)
Early Childhood Assistive Technology (Milbourne)
Handouts:
Learning Activities
Multimedia Illustrations
The video library is a compilation of almost 500 videos that may be used in early childhood intervention pre-service courses or in-service training. Each video contains the following relevant information:
- Title with a description
- Link to video
- Suggested citation
- Length of the video
- EI/ECSE standard
- DEC Recommended Practice
Resources
Resources to supplement the syllabus: