Amplifying Voices: Using AI for Creative and Intentional Inclusivity in Online Learning
Minoritized students experience a lower sense of belonging and demonstrate lower success and graduation rates than majority students (Johnson, 2022). As online education evolves and student populations become increasingly diverse (American Council on Education, 2024), creating inclusive learning environments for all students is more critical than ever. As Tan et al. (2025) note, AI tools offer teachers “enhanced flexibility and efficiency in content creation and personalized learning” (para. 4). A recent study, however, concluded that many online faculty feel their ability to create effective, inclusive course content is limited by either inexperience or lack of autonomy (Vice et al., 2025). This presentation will focus on practical and actionable ways instructors can leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance diversity and inclusion in their online classrooms. Drawing inspiration from recent student survey data that highlight both the need for and potential pitfalls of inclusivity efforts, this presentation will explore how AI can assist instructors in crafting more culturally responsive assignments, generate diverse content, and foster a greater sense of belonging for marginalized learners (Tan et al., 2025), emphasizing the role of human creativity and ethical responsibility in the era of AI-assisted teaching and learning.
Josef Vice, Purdue University Global, US
Melissa Bahle, Purdue University Global, US
Professor Melissa Bahle (she/her) is a full-time faculty member in the English & Rhetoric Department at Purdue University Global. She holds an M. Ed in English Language Learning from Western Governors University. In addition to her teaching career, she is a published poet and the Poetry Editor of The Gauge Literary Journal. She is also the Vice-president of the Pride@ Purdue Global ERG. Committed to community service, Mrs. Bahle founded Project Empathy, an initiative that provides food and clothing to the homeless through Blessing Boxes and seasonal donation drives. Her diverse skill set spans instructional technology, editorial work, and community engagement, reflecting her unwavering commitment to education, creativity, and social impact.
Dora Finamore, Purdue University Global, US
Dr. Dora Finamore, is a Professor in the School of Business at Purdue University Global and served as a past Senate member. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and registered play therapist.
Their most recent publication is ‘Fixed And Growth Mindset In Education And How Grit Helps Students Persist In The Face Of Adversity.” Her research interests are motivation and learning, multicultural belonging, mindset, positive psychology, and resilience. Her publications include the relationship between learning and motivation, positive psychology, emotional intelligence, mindset and resilience. Dr. Finamore has taught undergraduate and graduate courses on multicultural psychology, academic strategies, gender studies and positive psychology.
Christine O’Neal, Purdue University Global, US
Stephen Velky, Purdue University Global, US
I’m a Learning Experience Designer and eLearning storyteller who creates interactive, memorable learning experiences. I thrive on transforming ideas into hands-on, scenario-based learning that sticks—whether it’s virtual training on AI in education, diversity and inclusion workshops, or skill-building experiences that empower learners. As a first-generation college grad, I understand the thrill of figuring things out from scratch. That perspective drives my work: collaborating with SMEs, co-creating solutions, and refining content so learners connect with what truly matters. AI and multimedia are my playgrounds. I design experiences that are inclusive, dynamic, and practical—helping learners apply knowledge in real-world contexts. Moments of clarity, creative breakthroughs, and seeing learners succeed are what fuel my passion. I aim to bring teams’ visions to life, crafting learning experiences that are engaging, effective, and joyful. Core Skills & Passions Learning Experience Design (LXD)AI-Enhanced Multimedia Design & Virtual TrainingDiversity, Equity & Inclusion WorkshopsScenario-Based Learning & Interactive ExperiencesCurriculum & Learning Media DesignADA / Universal Design PrinciplesAI Animation & Video Creation.
