This page is written jointly between the Disability Support and Inclusion team, and Library and Learning Services, and is based on an original page: Using AI Tools as Assistive Technology
AI tools and your studies
Assistive technology helps remove barriers to learning and supports students to study independently. Some assistive technology includes AI-enabled features, such as text to speech, grammar checking, summarising, or note taking tools.
Using these tools, even when they include Generative AI (GenAI), is not automatically poor scholarship or academic misconduct. What matters is:
how the tool is used
what your assessment or module guidance allows
whether you disclose your use when required
Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) and AI tools
Assistive technology is often provided through Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) or, for staff, Access to Work.
DSA is a government funded grant for software, tools, or equipment
York St John University does not decide which software is awarded
The University supports students to use these tools appropriately
The University also provides standard digital tools and some specialist assistive technology licences for students who are not eligible for DSA.
AI, assistive technology, and reasonable adjustments
AI can appear in assistive technology in ways that are not always obvious, such as:
speech to text or text to speech tools
spelling, grammar, or writing support (for example, Grammarly)
AI supported note taking or study tools
Using assistive technology with AI features is allowed, but you must follow assessment instructions and academic integrity guidance.
Using AI safely in assessments
When using AI enabled assistive technology:
Follow your assessment brief. This is your primary guidance
Be aware of evolving features. Some tools now generate or paraphrase text
Do not generate large sections of work unless explicitly allowed
Avoid copying and pasting AI output into assessments
Check and verify all work. You should understand and explain it
Disclose AI use if your School or module requires this
If you are unsure, speak to your Module Leader before starting your assessment.
Where to get help
A more comprehensive version of this article, with examples and help is available at: Using AI Tools as Assistive Technology
For help with study, digital, or library skills, see Library, Study and Digital Skills support
For questions about DSA or adjustments, contact Disability Support and Inclusion via the Student Hub
You can book 1 to 1 assistive technology support with the Digital Training team