The aim of the project was to support the social inclusion of young people with cognitive disabilities, in particular those on the autism spectrum. The foundation coordinating the project, together with its transnational partner, wanted to create a tool that would help break down communication barriers and raise awareness among young people. It was crucial not only to transfer knowledge, but also to enable experience through interaction with a realistic simulator of a conversation with a teenager on the spectrum. The project also aimed to involve young people with cognitive disabilities themselves in the creation of the tool, so that we would not talk about them, but with them. Another important goal was to improve the competence of educators in the use of artificial intelligence in education accessible to all. The project assumed that social change does not start with theory, but with joint action, conversation and understanding of other people. All activities were carried out with a view to achieving a lasting effect – one that goes beyond the project and can be continued in schools, institutions and local communities. The evaluation shows that the objectives set out in the project proposal have been achieved.
The foundation coordinating the project has been supporting young people at risk of social exclusion, including those with cognitive disabilities, for many years. Experience working with young people on the autism spectrum has shown that the main barrier to their social functioning was not a reluctance to interact, but a lack of understanding from those around them and communication difficulties. On the other hand, young people without special needs said they would like to be supportive but did not know how to behave. Both groups showed a willingness to build relationships but lacked the tools and knowledge to do so. The project responded to these needs by creating a space for safe and realistic learning about how neuroatypical people function. The use of artificial intelligence to create a simulator of a conversation with a teenager on the spectrum helped to overcome the fear and awkwardness of the first contact. The project enabled neurotypical young people to experience communication with someone who speaks and reacts differently – without judgement, but with authenticity and emotional depth. This gave young users the opportunity to better understand and support their peers.