International Journal of Engineering
Trends and Technology

Research Article | Open Access | Download PDF
Volume 74 | Issue 6 | Year 2026 | Article Id. IJETT-V74I6P116 | DOI : https://doi.org/10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V74I6P116

Contextualising Artificial Intelligence in Inclusive Higher Education


K.S Shyna, Krishnamoorthi M, Mathiyarasan M, J Krithika, Thejas Gigy Thomas

Received Revised Accepted Published
21 Aug 2025 30 Mar 2026 20 Apr 2026 27 Jun 2026

Citation :

K.S Shyna, Krishnamoorthi M, Mathiyarasan M, J Krithika, Thejas Gigy Thomas, "Contextualising Artificial Intelligence in Inclusive Higher Education," International Journal of Engineering Trends and Technology (IJETT), vol. 74, no. 6, pp. 221-230, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V74I6P116

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an emerging tool with the potential to transform the trajectory of inclusive higher education. How does AI perform multiple roles simultaneously to ensure meaningful inclusion in education? Answering this question is difficult, as it lacks conceptual specificity. The present study attempts to converge the fragmented information to theorise AI in the context of inclusive higher education. This work adapts a five-stage systematic literature review technique and synthesises the multifaceted roles of AI. The result points out that AI fits in the context of inclusive higher education within the parameters of its advocacy, capacity-building, and awareness-creating roles, which is a fresh perspective. A solid strategic framework can be developed, integrating this finding with the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Hence, this study offers foundational knowledge to develop complex strategic models tailored for inclusion in higher education. Researchers, institutions, and policymakers can adopt these findings to use AI as a strategic weapon to nail the complex challenges of inclusive higher education.

Keywords

Artificial Intelligence, Disability, Higher education, Inclusion, Inclusive education, Technology in education, Social sustainability.

References

[1] Elisa Chaleta et al., “Higher Education and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)-Potential Contribution of the Undergraduate Courses of the School of Social Sciences of the University of Évora,” Sustainability, vol. 13, no. 4, pp. 1-10, 2021.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[2] Diana Harcourt et al., “Moving Beyond the Individual: The Impact and Importance of Sociocultural Influences on Visible Difference,” Body Image, vol. 53, pp. 1-8, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[3] Sahan Bulathwela et al., “Artificial Intelligence Alone will not Democratise Education: On Educational Inequality, Techno-Solutionism and Inclusive Tools,” Sustainability, vol. 16, no. 2, pp. 1-20, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[4] Lucas Kohnke, “Exploring EAP Students’ Perceptions of Genai and Traditional Grammar-Checking Tools for Language Learning,” Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol. 7, pp. 1-10, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[5] Anabel Moriña, and Víctor H. Perera, “Promoting Inclusive Practices with Emerging Technologies in Higher Education: Faculty Professional Development Through Blended-Learning,” The Internet and Higher Education, vol. 67, pp. 1-10, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[6] Chen-Chung Liu et al., “An Analysis of Children’ Interaction with an AI Chatbot and its Impact on their Interest in Reading,” Computers and Education, vol. 189, 2022.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[7] Muyideen Dele Adewale et al., “Impact of Artificial Intelligence Adoption on Students’ Academic Performance in Open and Distance Learning: A Systematic Literature Review,” Heliyon, vol. 10, no. 22, pp. 1-19, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[8] Martina Benvenuti et al., “Artificial Intelligence and Human Behavioral Development: A Perspective on New Skills and Competences Acquisition for the Educational Context,” Computers in Human Behavior, vol. 148, pp. 1-8, 2023.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[9] Aditi Bhutoria, “Personalized Education and Artificial Intelligence in the United States, China, and India: A Systematic Review using a Human-in-the-Loop Model,” Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol. 3, pp. 1-18, 2022.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[10] Yukyeong Song et al., “A Framework for Inclusive AI Learning Design for Diverse Learners,” Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol. 6, pp. 1-13, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[11] Martina K. Linnenluecke, Mauricio Marrone, and Abhay K. Singh, “Conducting Systematic Literature Reviews and Bibliometric Analyses,” Australian Journal of Management, vol. 45, no. 2, pp. 175-194, 2020.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[12] Yaser Hasan Al-Mamary et al., “Artificial Intelligence Powering Education: Chatgpt’s Impact on Students’ Academic Performance through the Lens of Technology-to-Performance Chain Theory,” Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. 17, no. 5, pp. 1661-1679, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[13] Manar Hazaimeh, and Abdullah M. Al-Ansi, “Model of AI Acceptance in Higher Education: Arguing Teaching Staff and Students Perspectives,” International Journal of Information and Learning Technology, vol. 41, no. 4, pp. 371-393, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[14] Hassiba Fadli, “AI-Enabled Microlearning and Case Study Atomisation: ICT Pathways for Inclusive and Sustainable Higher Education,” Sustainability, vol. 17, no. 24, pp. 1-30, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[15] Joshua Littenberg-Tobias, and Justin Reich, “Evaluating Access, Quality, and Equity in Online Learning: A Case Study of a MOOC-based Blended Professional Degree Program,” The Internet and Higher Education, vol. 47, 2020.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[16] Lejla Tašaković, and Özge Büyükdağlı, “Impact Assessment Methods for Teaching Activities on Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education Institutions: A Case Study from a Bosnian University,” Heritage and Sustainable Development, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 445-458, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[17] Tarık Atan, and Uğur Uysal Yorulmaz, “Sustainable Pathways in International Student Recruitment: The Strategic Role of Peer Referrals and Agent Engagement in Northern Cyprus,” Sustainability, vol. 17, no. 23, pp. 1-20, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[18] Panteha Farmanesh, Asim Vehbi, and Niloofar Solati Dehkordi, “AI Literacy in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: The Interplay of Student Engagement and Anxiety Reduction in Northern Cyprus Universities,” Sustainability, vol. 17, no. 11, pp. 1-18, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[19] Fengzhan Gao et al., “Promoting Sustainable Career Development in Inclusive Education: A Psychometric Study of Career Maturity Among Students with Special Educational Needs,” Sustainability, vol. 17, no. 14, pp. 1-22, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[20] Emmanuel S. Adabor et al., “Enhancing Sustainable Academic Course Delivery using AI in Technical Universities: An Empirical Analysis using Adaptive Learning Theory,” Sustainable Futures, vol. 10, pp. 1-12, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[21] Chen-Chen Liu, Hai-Jie Wang, and Xiao-Qing Gu, “From Access to Mastery: Integrating AI in Blended Learning for Equitable, Inclusive, and Accessible Music Theory Educations,” The Internet and Higher Education, vol. 66, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[22] Nanda van der Stap et al., “Towards Teaching Strategies Addressing Online Learning in Blended Learning Courses for Adult-Learners,” Computers and Education, vol. 219, pp. 1-17, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[23] Yueqiao Jin et al., “Generative AI in Higher Education: A Global Perspective of Institutional Adoption Policies and Guidelines,” Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol. 8, pp. 1-12, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[24] Tone Ristad et al., “A Multi-Stakeholder Perspective on Inclusion in Higher Education: Ruling on Fragile Ground,” International Journal of Educational Research Open, vol. 6, pp. 1-10, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[25] Kaneesha Ogle, Anna Ressler, and Jason W. Osborne, “Exploring Belonging and Inclusivity in Higher Education Through Intentional Grouping Practices,” Teaching and Learning in Nursing, vol. 21, no. 1, pp. e189-e193, 2026.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[26] Chokri Kooli, and Rim Chakraoui, “AI-Driven Assistive Technologies in Inclusive Education: Benefits, Challenges, and Policy Recommendations,” Sustainable Futures, vol. 10, pp. 1-9, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[27] Tingting Li et al., “Exploring Human and AI Collaboration in Inclusive STEM Teacher Training: A Synergistic Approach based on Self-Determination Theory,” The Internet and Higher Education, vol. 65, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[28] Kathryn S. McCarthy, and Eleanor F. Yan, “Reading Comprehension and Constructive Learning: Policy Considerations in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” Policy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 19-26, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[29] Huiying Cai et al., “Harnessing AI for Teacher Education to Promote Inclusive Education: Investigating the Effects of Chatgpt-Supported Lesson Plan Critiques on the Development of Pre-Service Teachers’ Lesson Planning Skills,” The Internet and Higher Education, vol. 67, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[30] Xin Zhao, Andrew Cox, and Xuanning Chen, “The use of Generative AI by Students with Disabilities in Higher Education,” The Internet and Higher Education, vol. 66, pp. 1-11, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[31] Kezia Herman Mkwizu, and Ritimoni Bordoloi, “Augmented Reality for Inclusive Growth in Education: The Challenges,” Asian Association of Open Universities Journal, vol. 19, no. 1, pp. 88-100, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[32] Muhamad Murtadlo et al., “Inclusive Education in Africa: Transforming Higher Education in Low-Income Countries,” Scientific African, vol. 28, pp. 1-11, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[33] Pekka Mertala, Janne Fagerlund, and Oscar Calderon, “Finnish 5th and 6th Grade Students’ Pre-Instructional Conceptions of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and their Implications for AI Literacy Education,” Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence, vol. 3, pp. 1-11, 2022.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[34] Nidhi Singh et al., “Technological Paradoxes and Artificial Intelligence Implementation in Healthcare. An Application of Paradox Theory,” Technological Forecasting and Social Change, vol. 198, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[35] Khandokar Tazina Islam, and Md. Jahangir Alam, “Inclusive Higher Educational Opportunity and Environments to Achieve SDG4 in Bangladesh: Lessons from Japan,” International Journal of Educational Research Open, vol. 6, pp. 1-11, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[36] Fiyinfoluwa Giwa, and Nicholas Ngepah, “The Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Low-Skilled Employment in South Africa,” Heliyon, vol. 10, no. 23, pp. 1-12, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[37] Tao Xu et al., “Maximizing Effectiveness of AI-Generated Instructors through Human-Like Behavior and Dynamic Visual Cues in Instructional Videos: Evidence from an Eye-Tracking Study,” The Internet and Higher Education, vol. 67, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[38] Birgül Gürbüzer, and Ahmet Münir Acuner, “RETRACTED: The Role of Service Quality in Enhancing Technological Innovation, Satisfaction, and Loyalty Among University Students in Northern Cyprus,” Sustainability, vol. 17, no. 15, pp. 1-18, 2026.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[39] Verónica Maldonado-Garcés et al., “Physical Accessibility in Higher Education: Evaluating a University Campus in Ecuador for Sustainable Inclusion,” Sustainability, vol. 17, no. 12, pp. 1-15, 2025.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[40] Alia El Naggar, Eman Gaad, and Shannaiah Aubrey Mae Inocencio, “Enhancing Inclusive Education in the UAE: Integrating AI for Diverse Learning Needs,” Research in Developmental Disabilities, vol. 147, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[41] Melody Zhang et al., “The Adoption of AI in Mental Health Care-Perspectives from Mental Health Professionals: Qualitative Descriptive Study,” JMIR Formative Research, vol. 7, no. 1, 2023.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[42] Hui Zhan et al., “Investigating the Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy Between Digital Leadership Capability, Intercultural Competence, and Employability Among Working Undergraduates,” Higher Education, Skills and Work-based Learning, vol. 14, no. 4, pp. 796-820, 2024.
[CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]

[43] Esraa Abdelhalim et al., “A Framework of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Safeguards for Chatbots,” Business Horizons, vol. 67, no. 5, pp. 487-498, 2024.
       [CrossRef] [Google Scholar] [Publisher Link]