Midland University is seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME) to design and teach SPD 513: Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy in our innovative Master's of Special Education program.

Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs and Strategic Partnerships in the Walker School of Education, the SME will be responsible for developing and teaching SPD 513: Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy. This position is critical for providing a quality education for students and ensuring their persistence toward the completion of their degree plans. Responsibilities include the following:

SPD 513: Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy

• Adhere to the mission, program learning outcomes, and course learning outcomes for which the course is being designed.
• Follow the agreed upon development schedule and ensure that development materials are sent appropriately to the department's Dean and Instructional Designer, according to the development timeframe.
• Meet as scheduled with the department Dean and Midland's Instructional Designer during the course development and program review processes.
• Develop appropriate learning assessments and rubrics for the course.
• Select resources to support course learning outcomes, which may include resources available through the Luther Library, credible resources available publicly (with appropriate usage rights), and/or a textbook.

Teach students and assess their work in Canvas:

• Provide individualized student feedback on assignments and activities.
• Convey command of and enthusiasm for course content by providing insight and sharing expertise with the class throughout the course (e.g., via discussions, announcements, and student feedback).
• Use grading rubrics to provide detailed feedback on student assignments based upon the assignment criteria.

• Broaden and deepen students' understanding of the course material by posting prompts and responses in the course discussions.

Engage Students Regularly and in a Timely Fashion:

• Communicate with graduate students on a regular basis via a "welcome" email; weekly announcements and emails; in discussions; and via student feedback on assignments and activities.
• Create a welcoming and collaborative online learning environment that is professional, positive, and respectful.
• Respond to communications received by the Program Director and students within 24 hours during the business week.
• Grade students' assignments within 72 hours of the due date (including students who have "incompletes").
• Respond promptly to the Registrar's requests, including submitting midterm and final grades by the deadline established by the Registrar.

Additional Responsibilities:

• New hires must complete orientation, professional development sessions, and any school-specific activities.
• Follow Midland's Online Expectations guidance (provided for review with contract)
• Attend meetings as agreed upon with your Program Director. If you cannot attend, please let your Program Director know in advance and arrange for a way to obtain the information covered in the meeting.
• Encourage students to complete course evaluations once made available through the registrar's office.
• Provide assessment data as required by your department.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree in a relevant field from an accredited university
• Experience with curriculum development - preferably at a graduate level
• Three to five years of professional or research experience within professional field
• Advanced knowledge, experience, and/or research related to Culturally Relevant Teaching, Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, Cross-Cultural Communications, and Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy
• Experience teaching in a graduate program
• Prior graduate-level course and/or program development experience
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• A passion for learning, teaching, and leading

Preferred:

• Minimum two years of experience teaching online courses
• Familiarity with APA 7th edition and graduate level writing
• Prior experience working with diverse populations in academic and professional settings
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to foster a collegial work environment that encourages change and innovation; and an ability to interact effectively and work productively, cooperatively, and collaboratively with a variety of individuals and groups

Compensation/Benefits:

• Wages paid on a per-course basis commensurate with education, experience, and individual strengths

• An engaging, respectful and productive working environment

• Access to campus events, including sporting events and theatrical performances

Timeline: Midland University is looking to hire for this role as soon as possible. Note: Course development begins in May 2024 and this course runs from August-October 2025. This position will remain open until filled.

Interested applicants should submit their application along with the following documents:

1. Cover letter/Letter of Interest describing your area(s) of expertise
2. Resume/CV
3. Transcript of Doctoral studies (unofficial transcripts acceptable until offered the position)
4. Complete contact information of at least three references

Midland University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.