What are the responsibilities and job description for the Learning Support Specialist for Math & Science position at University of Rio Grande--Rio Grande Community College?
The Learning Support Specialist for Math & Science works together with the Learning Support Specialist for English & Writing to provide engaging, high-quality academic learning support services. This position works closely with students, faculty, and staff to provide academic support services in various ways. In addition to providing direct tutoring and learning support services to students, this position also performs administrative duties that contribute to a holistic model of comprehensive student support. This position is housed on the main campus but also provides services to the four county-based academic centers. Peak demand times will be dictated by the academic calendar and may affect time-off requests. This position is a 12-month position and reports to the Director of Academic Support Services. Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a demonstration of tutoring/learning support abilities.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES:
- Provides direct student support through small group and one-on-one supportive instruction/assistance in mathematics & the sciences (biology, chemistry, etc) as well as general academic skill instruction in face-to-face and virtual formats. This includes, but is not limited to, tutoring students in math and/or the sciences (biology, chemistry, etc.), offering basic study skills instruction, and providing technical computer skills instruction based on student, faculty, and program needs.
- When appropriate, conducts an assessment of academic support needs and develops individualized academic support plans for assisting students
- Communicates and collaborates regularly with faculty, non-academic student support staff, and others to deliver the academic student support and academic engagement piece of a holistic model of student support
- Coordinates with faculty to develop effective educational practices, small group academic interventions, and individualized learning support services as needed
- In addition to required standard professional development (FERPA, Title IX, etc) participate regularly, and at least once annually, in professional development activities to stay up-to-date with best practices for delivering academic support services. This may require attending conferences and/or participating in webinars.
- Engages in a process of data-driven continuous improvement by documenting, collecting, and reviewing data related to academic student support services in order to determine the effectiveness of interventions and learning support practices
- Responsible for the training, preparation, scheduling, oversight, and evaluation of peer/student tutors and the institution’s peer tutoring program.
- Required to maintain tutoring/academic support services standards in keeping with the tutoring certification held by the institution, and the National Tutoring Association (NTA).
- Serves as reader/scribe and additional proctor/testing administrator, etc., for the testing center as needed, and has the ability to meet associated requirements/proficiencies to do so.
- Performs other duties as assigned
- Primarily works a typical 12-month/M-F schedule, but has flexibility to alter schedule based on institutional/student needs.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in mathematics, biology, chemistry, or related science area, or Bachelor’s Degree in AYA Education with a concentration in mathematics or science (biology, chemistry, etc). Candidates with bachelor’s degrees in education may be considered if they have advanced undergraduate-level (junior/senior) or graduate-level coursework in mathematics or science. The candidate must be able to tutor college algebra and statistics students proficiently.
- Experience providing one-on-one tutoring or individualized services to students with learning support needs, as well as small group academic support.
- Experience working with diverse learners from diverse populations
- Experience and/or Willingness to interact and engage with students using a remote environment (email, virtual platforms, etc)
- Ability to meet required proficiencies associated with all essential duties
- Exhibits excellent communication and writing skills
- Willingness/Ability to work occasional weekends and/or evenings as needed.
- Exhibits professionalism, confidence, and a strong work ethic; is capable of working both independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively
- Proficiency in using calculators/computers/software such as Microsoft Office
- Understanding of Adult Learning Theory, and/or similar pedagogical methods
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in mathematics, biology, chemistry, or related science area or Master’s Degree in AYA Education with a concentration in mathematics, or science (biology; chemistry, etc).
- 3 years or more experience providing one-on-one tutoring or individualized services to students with learning support needs
- Experience working with non-native English language speakers
- 1or more years of college-level tutoring or teaching experience
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Qualified applicants must send a cover letter, resume, transcripts (unofficial accepted for application purposes), as well as the names and contact information of at least three (3) professional references, to the attention of Dr. Stephanie Alexander, Director of Academic Support Services. For full consideration, application materials must be submitted through the University's online applicant tracking system.
Review of applications will begin immediately. Position is open until filled. Background check and official transcripts required prior to hire. For additional information about Rio, please visit: www.rio.edu
The University of Rio Grande/Rio Grande Community College is America's unique private/public institution of higher education designed to provide learners the opportunity to attain a high-quality, high-value education. Our personalized, learner-centered environment promotes successful lives, careers, and responsible citizenship. The campus of the university and community college is nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, and is adjacent to the original Bob Evans Farms and Homestead in Rio Grande. Rio is an Equal Opportunity Employer