NATCHITOCHES – Five Northwestern State University faculty have been recognized with the 2020 Excellence in Teaching Award.
Here is part one in a series of profiles of this year’s honorees.
Name: Sepora Prelow Fisher
Academic college/department: Department of Social Work
Number of years at Northwestern State: 15
Why is teaching important to you?
Teaching is important to me because I believe that learning is the cornerstone of civilization and socialization. Therefore, I consider teaching as the most noble of professions.
Why do you believe you are an effective teacher?
That’s simple. It’s passion. I truly believe that the content I teach is essential to a well-ordered society. I also believe that students must be engaged in the process. In the hope of nurturing life-long learners, I’m willing to use whatever means and methods to create excitement and curiosity.
As a teacher, what brings you a feeling of accomplishment when working with students?
I love seeing students’ minds working. I especially feel rewarded when I witness them fully understand a meaningful or foundational concept.
How has the current pandemic affected your teaching methods?
It has been a challenge but one I have welcomed. Education has been trending in the virtual direction for many years. An old-school teacher like me needed a bit of a shake up. I have found that with the right equipment, teaching and learning can still occur.
Have you learned anything during the pandemic that will make you a better teacher?
I’m not sure I can say that I “learned” this during the pandemic, but I certainly I have been reminded. The students that I teach come from all walks of life. Each of them must be met where they are in their learning process. Some are more advanced while others have significant gaps in their learning. My job is to close that gap.
