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Thesis
Exploring the potential of AI for improving inclusivity in university portals
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Jun 2025
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011005
Abstract
This thesis investigated how AI-enhanced features could be used to improve inclusivity within university digital portals, focusing on DrexelOne as a case study. Using a Design Thinking framework, the research incorporated a multilingual AI assistant (D.A.V.E.), adaptive navigation, and context-aware support systems to address linguistic, cultural, and usability barriers experienced by international students. Through surveys (n=34), interviews (n=9), prototype task flow testing (n=15), and Drexel IT support log analysis, the study triangulated data to uncover core challenges such as confusing navigation, impersonal interfaces, and robotic translations. The redesigned prototype demonstrated increased usability, reduced stress, and improved task success rates among Farsi-, Spanish-, and Chinese-speaking students. Participants notably valued tiered English levels and culturally responsive translations over standard automated systems. This study aimed to answer how AI could evaluate and enhance inclusivity in university portals. It contributed to the field of Human-AI Interaction (HAX) by demonstrating a scalable, no-code approach to inclusive UX innovation. The research showed that AI tools like natural language processing and predictive search could be ethically embedded into existing platforms to reduce cognitive load, support broader DEI efforts, and minimize cultural misalignment. Practical implications include technical design priorities, multilingual UX testing strategies, and conceptual guidelines for applying inclusive AI in higher education and beyond. Ultimately, this project offered a replicable framework for universities seeking ethical, inclusive AI integration that prioritizes student experience, linguistic access, and cultural responsiveness.
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Details
- Title
- Exploring the potential of AI for improving inclusivity in university portals
- Creators
- Dorsa Charkhian
- Contributors
- Troy Finamore (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- 146 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Digital Media; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 991022058837804721