EFFECTIVE WAYS TO USE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN INCLUSIVE EDUCATION

Abstract

Inclusive education is a pedagogical system aimed at providing equal learning opportunities to all students, including individuals with disabilities and socially vulnerable groups. The integration of information technologies (IT) into inclusive education is transforming the accessibility, individualization, and effectiveness of learning environments worldwide. IT tools—such as assistive technologies, learning management platforms, artificial intelligence, VR/AR, and mobile applications—enable personalized support, real-time monitoring, and improved motivation for learners with diverse needs. In Uzbekistan, the development of inclusive education has accelerated in recent years under national programs such as “Digital Education” and “Digital Uzbekistan–2030,” incorporating online platforms, interactive resources, and AI-powered solutions. This article examines the theoretical foundations of inclusive education, the functional role of IT across its four implementation stages (identification, adaptation, integration, evaluation), and globally and locally proven practical examples. It also identifies existing barriers, including technological inequality, lack of teacher readiness, and language limitations, while proposing strategic solutions through universal design, open-source software, policy support, and specialized teacher training. Finally, the study highlights future prospects shaped by AI, metaverse technologies, and smart education ecosystems, emphasizing IT as a core driver of equity and innovation in inclusive education.