Adjunct Faculty - Political Science, Middle College

Adjunct Instructor - Political Science

Grand Rapids Community College department of Social Sciences is seeking a dedicated Adjunct Instructor to teach Political Science class(es) in the fall and/or winter semesters at our Middle College K-12 partner locations.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for teaching and a commitment to student success, ensuring a high-quality learning experience for all students.

Adjunct needs are determined on a semester by semester basis, as are the number of sections offered each semester. GRCC classes are held at a variety of times:
Monday through Saturday, locations: main campus, lakeshore, & middle college partners, and modalities:
In-person, Online, Hybrid, & Virtual. For semester start and end dates, please see GRCC's Academic Calendar.

Essential Functions

• Teach GRCC course offering(s) in Political Science at our Middle College K-12 partnership locations.
• Perform tasks normally expected of adjunct faculty members:
• Follow the required syllabus template.
• Use the required textbook as determined by the department.
• Meet classes during the time scheduled and for the appropriate length of time required by the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• State course outcomes clearly at the beginning of the course and state the criteria and procedures for evaluating student attainment of these objectives.
• Promote an intellectually stimulating atmosphere in the classroom which is conducive to the attainment of high academic achievement and stated course outcomes.
• Keep accurate student academic records.
• Report grades by contractual deadline.
• Make reasonable accommodations as approved by the Disability Support Services to meet students' needs and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Follow College policy on the Family Educational Right to Privacy Act (FERPA).
• Make all reasonable efforts to respond to communication in a timely manner and provide reasonable means for student access to course information.

Job Specifications

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field from an accredited institution required.
• Teaching experience at a community college preferred.
• Experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds and with varying academic skills.
• Participation in professional development and/or continuous improvement activities in order to remain current in the field.

Skills

• Demonstrated expertise in the subject area and a commitment to continuous professional development.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population and faculty team.
• Proficiency in using instructional technology and learning management systems (e.g., Gmail, Canvas, Blackboard).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Physical Demands

• Some evening work (grading, preparing for class, responding to email questions) will be needed.
• Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time.

Mental Demands

• An understanding of and appreciation for the community college philosophy and student population.
• An interest in working with diverse student populations, who represent a wide range of age, ethnicity, national origin, and ability.
• A commitment to serve the Kent County community.
• Demonstrated responsiveness, initiative, and organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to perform routine and unexpected duties.
• A willingness and an ability to learn college systems.
• High energy level with enthusiasm and an interest in helping and supporting students and colleagues.
• Ability to work under pressure while possessing mature judgment and flexibility in regards to interruptions and schedule changes.
• Must use good judgment in handling sensitive or difficult situations in a professional manner.

Working Conditions

• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment that calls for flexibility/adaptability and the ability to handle multiple interruptions and make quick decisions.

Benefits

• Wellness Program:
  Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership.
• Continuous Learning:
  Career development and…