Position Purpose:

The Assistant in Instruction in Mathematics provides assistance with instruction and assessment to faculty teaching mathematics courses. This position is responsible for leading mathematics problem discussion sessions for Calculus I and Calculus II. This position assists with other classes as well, most commonly Introduction to Abstraction (MATH 221). This position also collaborates with the mathematics faculty to develop and assess meaningful hands-on student activity components to the mathematics curriculum. This position requires the ability to work successfully with math students at all levels of understanding and cognitive development using inclusive pedagogical techniques that facilitate student learning in a supportive atmosphere.

The successful applicant will have the ability to meaningfully engage students who come from varied methodological backgrounds. Additionally, this position works individually and with mathematics faculty to develop projects to do during Bates’ Short Term, which typically begins in late April. Such projects may relate to math courses at Bates, assessment of learning objectives, or other departmental goals. Finally, this position will contribute to our departmental commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive mathematics program.

Job Duties:

Mathematics Instruction:

• Conduct weekly discussion sessions for Calculus I and II; develop new activities as needed; evaluate student work in these sessions and maintain needed records to assist the faculty in course grading.
• Assist in preparation of up-to-date plans for practice session activities for a variety of other courses in the undergraduate mathematics curriculum at instructor request.
• Assist during regular class hours in other courses at instructor request.
• Designate time to be available to support students in small group or individual settings.
• Assist students in mathematical typesetting, typically using LaTeX.
• Provide support to students learning and using mathematical software, as needed.

Department Organization and Assessment:

• For core mathematics courses such as Calculus I and II and Introduction to Abstraction (introduction to proof techniques): coordinate and maintain instructional resources, create a schedule shared across the department, and facilitate regular meetings with faculty teaching these courses, providing consistency each semester as the faculty teaching these courses rotate frequently.
• Utilize and update student diagnostic and placement exams to advise students.
• Assist in course-level and department-level assessment, including assessing proficiency in shared and agreed-upon learning objectives.
• Assist with other departmental tasks as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education

BA/BS degree in Mathematics or a closely related field.

Experience

• Significant teaching experience is preferred.
• Experience with assessing learning objectives or desirable skills is preferred.

Skills and Knowledge

• Commitment to equity and inclusion, and serving the needs of a culturally and educationally diverse community.
• Strong time, task, and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn new software as needed.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with colleagues.
• A personal commitment to excellence and the mission of a top-tier liberal arts college.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, goal-oriented environment.
• Commitment to equitable, evidence-based, and inclusive pedagogical practices.

Benefits:

Bates College offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits (health, dental, sick leave, 20 days of vacation, 2 personal days, 13 paid holidays, dependent care subsidy, free parking, access to library and athletic facilities & more), and a supportive, collegial environment in a drug and smoke-free workplace.