In this digital age, where artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly acts as our daily companion, ensuring that the myriad of voices and experiences shaping our tech is inclusive isn’t just important—it’s critical. As a card-carrying member of the neurodiverse squad, my dive into the AI and machine learning pool was spurred by a nagging puzzle: Does AI really get folks on the autism spectrum, or is it more like that awkward guest at a party who just can’t read the room?

Kicking Off the Quest

This adventure kicked off with a deep dive into the world of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, courtesy of the brainiacs over at OpenAI. These AI giants, juiced up on a cocktail of human knowledge and chatter, boast of their prowess in mimicking human banter. But here’s the million-dollar question: Do they really capture the full kaleidoscope of human experiences, especially from the neurodivergent corner?

Peeling Back the Layers of Neurodiversity in AI

The act of “masking” is a familiar script for many neurodivergent folks—tweaking our behaviors to blend into a neurotypical world. This charade begs the question: If the data feeding AI is cloaked in neurotypicality, what unique insights are we missing out on?

Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to poke ChatGPT with questions about its diet of data and how it represents the neurodivergent narrative. The chat threw up a glaring hole—the AI munches on a diverse data platter, but neurodivergent-spun yarns aren’t explicitly on the menu. This was a lightbulb moment, underlining the need for AI brains that not only acknowledge but also spotlight neurodivergent viewpoints.

On the Hunt for Neurodivergent-Savvy AI

Fueled by curiosity, I set off on a quest to uncover AI initiatives or models marinated in neurodivergent creativity. My sleuthing led me to various AI corners, but the spotlight moment was stumbling upon Enabled Intelligence (EI)—a beacon of hope leveraging neurodiverse brilliance in AI data annotation.

EI’s strategy of harnessing the unique skills of neurodiverse folks, including those blessed with autism, for tasks that demand ninja-like pattern recognition and meticulous attention to detail, hints at progress. Yet, the burning question lingered: Is there an AI out there feasting solely on content whipped up by autistic minds?

Stepping Up the Game

Not one to sit back, I reached out to Enabled Intelligence, eager to learn about their endeavors in cooking up AI models that resonate with autistic perspectives or are seasoned with content crafted by autistic creators. This move wasn’t just about seeking answers; it was about rolling up my sleeves and diving into the heart of the AI and neurodiversity dialogue.

The Road Ahead

The journey is anything but over. Each chat, question, and article is a piece of the puzzle, inching us closer to AI that mirrors the rich tapestry of human diversity. As I play the waiting game for replies and keep the exploration alive, my mission is crystal clear: to champion and shape AI that not only recognizes but celebrates the distinctive views of the neurodivergent community.

Embarking on this quest for AI inclusivity underscores a broader call to action for tech that embraces every facet of humanity, cherishing the insights and experiences of neurodivergent individuals.