Adjunct Instructor- Elementary Reading

University of West Alabama:
Academic Affairs:
College of

Education:

Department of Teaching and Learning Location

University of West Alabama

Aug 03, 2026

The Elementary Reading Adjunct Instructor provides high-quality instruction in undergraduate and/or graduate reading and literacy courses on a part-time, term-by-term basis. The instructor prepares future educators to deliver evidence-based reading instruction aligned with the Science of Reading and structured literacy principles. Responsibilities include delivering course content, engaging teacher candidates in meaningful learning experiences, assessing student performance, and maintaining high academic standards consistent with departmental and institutional expectations.

• Teach assigned undergraduate and/or graduate reading and literacy courses in accordance with approved curriculum and program learning outcomes.
• Prepare teacher candidates to implement evidence-based reading instruction grounded in the Science of Reading and structured literacy practices.
• Develop and/or update course materials, including syllabi, assignments, assessments, and instructional resources.
• Integrate current reading research, Alabama literacy initiatives, and best practices into course instruction.
• Deliver instruction through assigned modalities, including face-to-face, hybrid, and online formats.
• Evaluate student performance and provide timely, constructive feedback.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, grades, and other required documentation.
• Communicate effectively with students regarding course expectations, academic progress, and professional responsibilities.
• Maintain scheduled office hours or be available to students as appropriate for the course format.
• Adhere to institutional policies, accreditation standards, academic expectations, and departmental deadlines.
• Participate in departmental meetings, professional development, and faculty training as requested and appropriate for adjunct faculty.

Minimum Qualifications

• Earned terminal degree in Reading, Literacy, Curriculum and Instruction (Reading), Elementary Education with a reading emphasis, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of five years of successful experience teaching reading in grades K–3.
• Minimum of nine graduate semester hours in reading or literacy coursework.
• Demonstrated knowledge of structured literacy, evidence-based reading instruction, the Science of Reading, and current literacy research.
• Evidence of ongoing professional learning in reading science and literacy instruction.
• Effective communication, interpersonal, and instructional skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Completed LETRS professional learning.
• Experience teaching reading or literacy courses in higher education.
• Experience supervising or preparing preservice teachers.
• Experience teaching online using learning management systems such as Blackboard or Canvas.
• Experience integrating instructional technology into higher education coursework.
• Adjunct appointments are part-time and contingent upon enrollment, funding, and departmental needs.
• Compensation is determined on a per-course basis.
• Adjunct faculty are not eligible for benefits unless otherwise specified by institutional policy.

Additional Information

Adjunct faculty are expected to uphold the institution's commitment to academic excellence, student success, and inclusive learning environments while preparing teacher candidates to provide effective, evidence-based literacy instruction for all learners.