This paper examines how artificial intelligence can be ethically and intentionally implemented in online education to create personalized, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences. It covers the evolution of AI in online learning, strategies for personalization, approaches to amplifying student engagement, methods for creating inclusive and accessible learning environments, and ethical considerations.
Dr. Siobahn Day Grady and Dr. Racheal Brooks present comprehensive AI strategies for online education with evidence-based implementation approaches. They also provide practical guidance for educators and institutions on ethically integrating AI tools while maintaining human oversight and prioritizing student fairness and accessibility.
About the Authors
Dr. Siobahn Day Grady is the director of the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER) at North Carolina Central University, where she also serves as an assistant professor and program director of Information Science/Systems in the School of Library and Information Sciences. In 2018, she became the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in Computer Science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Dr. Grady leads the Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (LAIER) and is an Office of e-Learning faculty fellow.
Her research focuses on artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and STEM participation, with applications in combating misinformation, improving autonomous vehicle safety, and eliminating bias in healthcare algorithms. As IAIER director, she advances AI research while ensuring technology remains accessible to all.
Dr. Grady's work has received national and international recognition. She established six merit-based STEM scholarships at HBCUs within the UNC System and holds numerous Quality Matters certifications. She serves on several boards, including the Winston-Salem State University Foundation, and is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Dr. Racheal Brooks is a seasoned higher education administrator, educator, and consultant with over 16 years of experience dedicated to advancing teaching and learning. She is the Director of Quality Assurance Implementation Solutions at Quality Matters, where she leads consulting efforts and supports institutions in strengthening online quality assurance. As a faculty member, she teaches online and blended Spanish and graduate-level research methods courses.
Previously, Dr. Brooks served as Director of the Office of e-Learning at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) and Co-Chair of the UNC System Quality Matters Council. Her involvement in online education includes service on the Quality Matters Academic Advisory Council, Research Colleagues, and NCCU’s Distance Education Advisory Council. She also initiated faculty learning communities at NCCU to promote Quality Matters course certification.
Her research focuses on online instruction, learner success, culturally inclusive design, curriculum development, digital accessibility, program assessment, and online language instruction. Dr. Brooks holds a B.A. in Spanish from NCCU, an M.A. in Spanish Literature from Georgia State University, and a Ph.D. in Educational Research and Policy Analysis with a focus on Higher Education Administration from North Carolina State University.
