Curriculum Framework for Entrepreneurial Innovation among Special Needs Students in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

The development of inclusive curricula for entrepreneurial education faces challenges due to the diversity of learners’ needs, particularly among students with disabilities. This study presented a curriculum framework that integrated artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance entrepreneurial innovation for special needs students. Grounded in constructivism, experiential learning, differentiated instruction, and entrepreneurship education theories, the framework combined academic rigor with practical application. Using an Entrepreneurship-by-Design methodology, the study identified creativity, financial literacy, adaptive problem-solving, and resilience as core competencies. AI technologies were positioned as enablers of accessibility and inclusion through simulations, adaptive platforms, and assistive tools. The framework demonstrated applicability across diverse cultural and economic contexts, showing how mobile-based AI solutions reduced barriers in low-resource environments, while immersive AI applications such as virtual reality enriched practice in technologically advanced settings. Findings indicated that AI personalized learning, reduced barriers to participation, and fostered self-efficacy among learners with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and mobility or communication impairments. Beyond individual benefits, the framework contributes to societal equity by broadening innovation ecosystems and aligning with policy objectives such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The study concluded that AI-enhanced entrepreneurship education has the potential to transform special needs students into active innovators and recommended institution-wide adoption, policy reform, cross-sector collaboration, and longitudinal evaluation to ensure sustainable impact