Dr. Lauren Tucker

Dr. Tucker pointing to a low tech communication board modeling language during a performance

Dr. Lauren Tucker
Associate Professor, Assistive Technology Specialist

Connecticut Certified Teacher in Special Education #165 & Regular Ed #013

Program Coordinator; MS in Special Education, 6YC in Adaptive Technology, & Assistive Technology Certificate (ATC)
Southern Connecticut State University

Lauren Tucker - white woman in her 30's with glasses and long brown hair

Dr. Lauren Tucker is an associate professor in the special education department at Southern Connecticut State University. She has a dual certification in special and regular education with expertise in assistive technology, artificial intelligence (AI), accessibility, universal design for learning, online learning, and technology implementation.

She conducts assistive technology evaluations, consultations, and trainings around the state of Connecticut. Dr. Tucker passionately promotes universal design for learning to enhance learning and accessibility for all individuals. Her research focuses on universal design, assistive/instructional technology, implementing communication and visual supports in community experiences, specifically the theatre.

Promoting AI Awareness and Education for Inclusive Classrooms and Professional Development:

- I have designed and currently teach a 3-credit graduate-level course on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing inclusive classrooms. This course covers essential AI applications for educational professionals, focusing on how AI tools can support accessibility and augment assistive technology (AT) to foster equitable learning environments. Additionally, I lead an AI Affinity Group for faculty members at Southern Connecticut State University, providing a platform for interdisciplinary discussions and research collaborations around AI and accessibility.
- In professional development, I have organized and facilitated numerous AI workshops—both virtual and in-person—targeted at educators, therapists, and other professionals. These workshops explore the intersections of AI, accessibility, and AT, equipping participants with strategies for using AI to support individuals with disabilities effectively. A recent workshop I led focused on using ChatGPT’s voice feature to help professionals prepare for critical conversations and interviews, an innovation designed to empower individuals in professional and social contexts through AI-assisted communication.

Through these synergistic activities, I am committed to building AI literacy within educational and professional organizations, ensuring that stakeholders can leverage AI ethically and inclusively to promote accessibility and empowerment for all.

Enhancing Accessibility through the CT Assistive Technology Act:

I have been actively involved in promoting accessibility and assistive technology through the CT Assistive Technology Tech Act. My work includes creating switch-adapted toys for local schools, as highlighted on the CT Tech Act Blog, and developing an assistive technology certificate program at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU). These initiatives aim to provide practical solutions and training to improve accessibility for students with disabilities.

Consulting with Local Schools and Adult Facilities:

I regularly consult with local schools and adult facilities to increase access to assistive technology. My consulting efforts include providing professional development sessions on universal design for learning (UDL) and assistive technology. Notable projects include establishing functional technology baselines for transition-age students and partnering with community theaters to create sensory-inclusive experiences for individuals with disabilities.

Professional Learning Communities and Faculty Development:

I have led professional learning communities (PLCs) to support faculty in integrating UDL and assistive technology into their teaching practices. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I facilitated virtual PLCs to help educators transition to online learning, ensuring they could continue to support students with disabilities effectively. My work in this area has been published in various journals, including the Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration.

Leadership in Professional Organizations:

As the President of the Connecticut Council for Exceptional Children (CTCEC) and Secretary of the Innovations in Special Education Technology (ISET) Division, I have contributed to advancing the field of special education technology. These roles involve organizing conferences, leading professional development initiatives, and advocating for policies that support the use of assistive technology in educational settings.

Public Engagement and Outreach:

Through my Instagram account @scsuassistivetech, I engage with a broader audience to raise awareness about the importance of assistive technology and accessibility. I share insights, resources, and updates on projects related to enhancing educational experiences for students with disabilities. Additionally, I have been featured in media interviews discussing the use of technology to improve communication between home and school, further highlighting my commitment to public outreach and advocacy.

Dr. Lauren TuckerAssociate Professor, Assistive Technology Specialist