Anita Flemington, professor of education, presented her talk “Still Crazy (About Teaching) After All These Years” at noon Tuesday on Zoom before a virtual audience of 20.
Pulling from her 45 years of experience as an educator, she discussed managing technology and shared advice on how to improve teaching in the virtual classroom.
Her talk was part of the weekly faculty lecture series.
Flemington began her teaching career in 1976 as a first grade bilingual teacher in El Monte, and she’s been at the University of La Verne for more than 25 years.
She said teaching has changed dramatically since she started. Technology has had a huge impact, she said.
She recalled her experience with updating her own technology skills to stay interactive with her students – particularly during the past two years, during which time the pandemic required nearly all ULV instructors to teach most all their classes online.
“I had to be more vulnerable and open to learning,” Flemington said.
She said she took on multiple teaching and leadership roles throughout her time at the University.
Flemington, who is also chair of teacher education for the La Fetra College of Education, said of all the various teaching experiences, she enjoyed co-teaching most.
“I truly enjoy teaching and learning,” Flemington said. “I also love building relationships.”
Learning and having another teacher’s insight on how to progress your class and curriculum is helpful, she said.
Flemington’s talk also allowed many professors to ask questions about some of the nuances of teaching.
Professor of Computer Science Seta Whitby asked Flemington for advice on addressing students on Zoom when they choose to keep their cameras off.
“It makes it really challenging for me,” Whitby said.
Flemington said students are not always comfortable with Zoom cameras on at home, and this could be based on lack of a quiet private space. Advisers and teachers need to be sensitive to these situations, Flemington said.
–Joslyn Aguilar
Joslyn Aguilar, a junior communications major, is a staff writer for the Campus Times.
William Zeus Hardy, a senior photography major, is a staff photographer for the Campus Times. His work can also be found at williamhardy.mypixieset.com.
