Educational Development Specialist

Overview

The Educational Development Specialist leads faculty development initiatives focused on scientific teaching and evidence-based instructional practices, with particular emphasis on STEM disciplines. This role holds primary responsibility for a portfolio of programs including the Auburn University Summer STEM Institute (AUSSI), Science Communication workshop series and online course (in development), the Engaged Teaching online course and related learning communities, and the Engaged & Active Student Learning (EASL) Academy.

Additionally, they will lead efforts to support STEM departments and colleges in assessing teaching effectiveness and developing faculty to assess their peers’ teaching in formative and summative ways. The position works closely with faculty and campus partners to translate research on teaching and learning into practice, support instructors in active learning environments, and strengthen the impact of teaching across Auburn.

• Develops, delivers, and assesses professional development resources to expand emerging technology readiness and literacy for the Auburn University academic community which includes leading the facilitation and updates of emerging technology-related programming, ensuring content relevance and engagement.
• Conducts training sessions for teacher assistants, to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective teaching support.
• Assists with planning, implementation, delivery, and assessment of programs and events organized by the Biggio Center such as but not limited to New Faculty Orientation, Course (Re)
  Design, SoTL programs, and EASL Academy. Creates and designs content for asynchronous courses using instructional design principles, focusing on accessibility, engagement, and pedagogical effectiveness. Designs and delivers workshops for faculty, covering a range of topics pertinent to contemporary teaching methodologies and innovations.
• Maintains comprehensive records of center activities and develops compelling narratives to communicate the impact of the center to diverse audiences. Analyzes organizational data and create visualizations to inform decision-making and showcase the impact of teaching and learning initiatives.
• Engages in faculty‑led initiatives in teaching and learning, partnering to bring innovative ideas to fruition. Collaborates on departmental and campus‑wide initiatives.
• Develops and implements effective strategies to enhance communication and program offerings to faculty members.
• Engages actively in professional organizations such as the POD Network. Maintains awareness of trends in higher education, research on SoTL and Scholarship of Educational Development (SoED). Internally share implications of relevant findings and their impact on the unit’s work.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's Degree
• 2 years of experience in designing and developing instructional materials and courses.

Strongly

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or terminal degree in a STEM field or ABD status with a clear timeline to completion
• Experience teaching in higher education

Continuing

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