Bolhari Leads DEI Workshop for Neurodivergent Engineering Students

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at modernizing engineering education, Associate Teaching Professor Azadeh Bolhari has been selected by Fulbright Brazil as a U.S. specialist. Bolhari will lead a workshop titled Fostering DEI through Personalized Learning Systems for Neurodivergent Undergraduate Engineering Students. This recognition underscores the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in higher education.

The workshop is part of the Fulbright Brazil Special Program for the Modernization of Undergraduate Education (PMG). This program is supported by the Fulbright Commission, the Brazilian Ministry of Education, the U.S. Embassy in Brasília, and the Conselho Nacional de Educação (CNE) or the National Council of Education.

Bolhari’s workshop will engage 50 faculty members from eight universities, all dedicated to the mission of modernizing engineering education. These faculty members will collaborate with representatives from CNE, Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES), Fulbright, and the U.S. Embassy. The workshop aims to equip educators with the tools and strategies necessary to create more inclusive and personalized learning environments for neurodivergent students, thereby fostering a more equitable educational landscape.

The Importance of DEI in Engineering Education

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they are essential components of a robust educational framework. In the context of engineering education, DEI ensures that all students, regardless of their neurodivergent status, have access to the resources and support they need to succeed. By focusing on personalized learning systems, Bolhari’s workshop aims to address the specific needs of neurodivergent students, who may struggle with traditional teaching methods.

Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Students

Neurodivergent students often encounter a range of challenges in conventional educational settings. These can include difficulties with concentration, sensory processing issues, and social interaction barriers. Traditional teaching methods may not cater to these unique needs, leading to a less inclusive learning environment. By implementing personalized learning systems, educators can create a more supportive and effective educational experience for neurodivergent students.

About the Fulbright Brazil Special Program for the Modernization of Undergraduate Education (PMG)

The Fulbright Brazil Special Program for the Modernization of Undergraduate Education (PMG) is a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of undergraduate education in Brazil. Supported by various educational and governmental bodies, the program seeks to introduce innovative teaching methods and promote DEI in higher education. Bolhari’s workshop is a key component of this program, focusing specifically on the needs of neurodivergent engineering students.

Objectives of the Workshop

The primary objective of Bolhari’s workshop is to provide faculty members with the knowledge and skills required to implement personalized learning systems. These systems are designed to accommodate the diverse needs of neurodivergent students, ensuring that they receive the support necessary to thrive in an academic setting.

The workshop will cover various topics, including:

• Understanding Neurodivergence: Educators will learn about the different types of neurodivergence and the specific challenges faced by neurodivergent students.
• Personalized Learning Strategies: The workshop will introduce various personalized learning strategies that can be implemented to support neurodivergent students.
• Inclusive Classroom Practices: Faculty members will explore ways to create a more inclusive classroom environment that fosters a sense of belonging for all students.
• Collaboration and Support: The importance of collaboration among educators, students, and support staff will be emphasized, highlighting the need for a comprehensive support system.

Impact on Engineering Education

Bolhari’s workshop is expected to have a significant impact on engineering education, both in Brazil and globally. By equipping educators with the tools and strategies necessary to support neurodivergent students, the workshop aims to create a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape. This, in turn, will help to ensure that all students, regardless of their neurodivergent status, have the opportunity to succeed in their academic and professional endeavors.

Long-term Benefits

The long-term benefits of implementing personalized learning systems in engineering education are manifold. Not only will these systems help to address the specific needs of neurodivergent students, but they will also contribute to a more diverse and inclusive engineering workforce. By fostering a sense of belonging and support, personalized learning systems can help to reduce dropout rates, improve academic performance, and enhance the overall educational experience for all students.

Conclusion

Associate Teaching Professor Azadeh Bolhari’s selection as a U.S. specialist by Fulbright Brazil is a testament to her dedication to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in engineering education.

Her workshop, part of the Fulbright Brazil Special Program for the Modernization of Undergraduate Education (PMG), aims to equip educators with the tools and strategies necessary to support neurodivergent students.

By focusing on personalized learning systems, Bolhari’s workshop seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape, ultimately benefiting all students and contributing to a more diverse and inclusive engineering workforce.

For more information on this initiative, visit the University of Colorado Boulder website.