Soon after the onset of the pandemic, the Center communicated with faculty and those associated with the programs and projects in view of reflecting on adjusted, transformed, and reexamined practice. The umbrella term was Optimal Learning Experiences (OLEx). We endeavored, by necessity but also as open-minded and flexible educators, to connect to those dimensions of our teaching that were most essential, most useful, empathetic, and productive, while allowing students and colleagues to perform within an obviously transformed learning environment. We shared ideas and classroom work, as well as strategies and approaches during faculty meetings, staff meetings, impromptu salons, and a variety of non-required gatherings.
The OLEx automatically/organically came to a close towards the end of 2021, without much of a finissage or grand closure. We asked many to share some reflections on their OLEx—and we officially archived this dimension of our practice under The OLEx Files. Ultimately, OLEx also stood not only for that particular initiative, but for the necessary fluidities, flexibilities, and nimbleness that are an essential part of our higher education realm.