Senior Academic Advisor (N000356)
Position summary
Introduction
Job description
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
A Senior Disciplinary Literacy Adviser will be responsible for enhancing literacy across disciplines through a diverse set of roles including academic advising, development support, curriculum enhancement, professional development, and critical research. This multifaceted position entails designing and implementing disciplinary literacy programs, advising on effective literacy practices, managing curriculum development, leading professional training sessions, conducting pivotal research, coordinating literacy projects, and engaging with the community to foster literacy outside the classroom. This role is central to advancing academic success and promoting lifelong learning among students through innovative and interdisciplinary literacy.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Academic Advising:
- Conduct one-on-one advising sessions focusing on time management and study skills.
- Provide consultation to faculty and students on integrating effective disciplinary literacy practices.
- Offer advice and resources for improving reading and comprehension skills within specific disciplines.
Disciplinary Literacy Development Support:
- Design and implement reading programs with a strong component of disciplinary literacy.
- Promote interdisciplinary literacy approaches across the curriculum.
- Develop and evaluate reading software and online resources.
- Facilitate academic-focused reading groups or book clubs.
- Integrate reading technologies and academic writing support into literacy initiatives.
Curriculum Development and Enhancement:
- Design and improve reading curriculum aligned with current educational standards and reading education research.
- Create and adapt reading programs and strategies for a diverse student population.
- Manage the selection and procurement of reading materials, textbooks, and educational technologies.
Professional Development and Training:
- Mentor teachers in literacy instruction skills.
- Collaborate with faculty for effective reading strategy integration.
- Organize professional development workshops for academics and reading strategy workshops for students.
Critical Research:
- Lead research initiatives aligned with strategic university goals.
- Ensure ethical standards in research and publication of findings.
- Analyse and report on student survey data for continuous improvement.
Disciplinary Literacy Projects Coordination:
- Oversee project planning, scheduling, risk management, and quality assurance.
- Conduct project reviews, manage budgets, and prepare financial reports.
- Lead and support project teams, identifying training and development needs.
Collaboration and Community Engagement:
- Engage in cross-disciplinary collaborations and discussions.
- Foster partnerships with libraries, universities, and educational organizations.
- Organize literacy events and workshops, working with various stakeholders to promote literacy outside the classroom.
Minimum requirements
- An Honours degree/ PGDip (NQF level 8) in Education with specialisation in Languages or Life Orientation/Student Support.
- A teaching qualification in Education.
- A minimum of five (5) years working experience in an Education/Student Development and Support Environment with:
- A minimum of three (3) years’ teaching experience in Secondary or Higher education.
- A minimum of two (2) years’ experience in academic student development & support environment.
- A minimum of one (1) year experience in the implementation of computer reading and learning programmes.
ADDED ADVANTAGE:
- A Master’s degree (NQF level 9) in Education with specialisation in Languages or Life Orientation/Student Support
- Reading and/or Psychology background - Reading Software use and/or Psychology Counselling.
KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:
- Knowledge in student programmes at tertiary level as well as reading and learning support. Skills in terms of reading and learning analysis, interpretation and advising.
- Proven experience in literacy development, curriculum design, and project management.
- Knowledge and experience in academic development and support of students.
- Consulting with faculties/CTL with regards to teaching in the higher education environment. New trends in teaching and learning.
- Strong background in educational research with publication records.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
- Ability to innovate and implement effective literacy programs across disciplines.
KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:
- Exceptional communication (verbal and writing), persuasion and listening skills.
- Exceptional interpersonal relationships and a positive client service approach.
REMUNERATION
The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
ENQUIRIES REGADING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Dr. Nomasomi Morule, Tel No: 018 289-2482
ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Ms. Hawa Joosub, Tel No: 018 389-9015
CLOSING DATE: 05 April 2024
COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: 01 June 2024
Kindly take note: applications may only be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website. Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The University subscribes to and applies the principles of the Employment Equity Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the aforementioned Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.
The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
