WATERBURY, CT — UConn Waterbury has unveiled the Neurovariability Initiative, a first-of-its-kind campus-wide effort to reimagine education using insights from neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and inclusive design.
Developed by Campus Dean Fumiko Hoeft and UConn Engineering Professor Arash Zaghi, the initiative centers on the idea that human thinking and learning vary naturally—and that systems should reflect, rather than resist, that variability.
Rather than focus on deficits, the initiative leverages cognitive diversity to design learning environments that elevate all students. It merges Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles with ethical AI tools and brain-based teaching methods. Both Hoeft and Zaghi—neurodivergent educators and parents—co-created the model based on their experiences.
UConn Waterbury launched the initiative with its inaugural Neurovariability Level 1 Training during spring break.
The four-day hybrid workshop coincided with Neurodiversity Celebration Week and involved faculty and staff from across campus departments, including SHaW, AAC, Student Services, and Academic Affairs. Sessions addressed inclusive teaching, strength-based support strategies, and AI-driven feedback systems.
The training drew participation from experts such as Kate Griggs of Made by Dyslexia, Jessica Parker and Kimberly Becker of Moxie, and Sam Johnston of CAST. Each presented on how technology, UDL, and research can converge to create personalized, flexible learning environments.
Zaghi, a recipient of the White House PECASE Award, emphasized redesigning systems, not students.
The Neurovariability Initiative complements existing university programs, including CETL’s inclusive teaching and UConn Engineering’s Include Program.
