Learning Specialist Jobs: Roles, Requirements & Career Guide

🎓 What is a Learning Specialist?

A Learning Specialist, often referred to in higher education contexts, is a dedicated professional who helps students overcome academic hurdles by providing targeted support for learning challenges. The Learning Specialist definition centers on expertise in diagnosing and addressing issues like attention disorders or skill gaps through customized strategies. Unlike general tutors, they focus on building lifelong learning skills, such as time management and critical reading, enabling students to thrive independently.

In universities worldwide, including those in Armenia like Yerevan State University, Learning Specialists work in academic success centers. They collaborate with faculty to adapt curricula for diverse learners, drawing from psychological and educational principles established since the 1970s with the rise of disability support services under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) internationally adapted.

Key Responsibilities of Learning Specialists

Daily tasks involve one-on-one coaching sessions where specialists assess student needs via diagnostic tools, then craft individualized education plans. They lead workshops on note-taking or exam prep, track progress with data analytics, and advocate for accommodations like extended test times.

For instance, at a mid-sized U.S. university, a Learning Specialist might support 50 students per semester, boosting retention rates by 15-20% through evidence-based interventions rooted in cognitive science.

Required Academic Qualifications and Expertise

Most Learning Specialist jobs require a Master's degree in education, special education, counseling, or psychology, though a PhD enhances prospects for leadership roles. Expertise centers on learning theories, such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which promotes flexible teaching methods for all students.

Preferred experience includes 2-5 years in tutoring, classroom teaching, or student affairs, plus publications in journals on study skills or securing small grants for support programs. In Armenia, familiarity with bilingual education (Armenian-English) is valuable given the country's push for internationalization post-2020 reforms.

Essential Skills and Competencies

Core competencies include empathetic communication to build trust, analytical skills for interpreting assessment data, and proficiency in tools like learning management systems (e.g., Canvas). Cultural competence is key in diverse settings, ensuring strategies respect varied backgrounds.

• Active listening to uncover hidden barriers
• Instructional design for workshops
• Collaboration with stakeholders like professors
• Adaptability to emerging tech like AI tutors

Career Path and Opportunities

The role has evolved from remedial tutoring in the 1980s to integral student success positions today, driven by enrollment pressures and inclusivity mandates. Globally, demand grows 10-15% annually per higher ed reports.

Aspiring professionals can start as research assistants in education departments. For advancement, pursue certifications from bodies like the National Association for Developmental Education. In competitive markets, a strong academic CV highlighting measurable student outcomes is crucial, as shared in higher ed career guides.

Explore openings via higher ed jobs boards or university jobs portals. Institutions value those who excel in roles like postdoctoral research on pedagogy.

Definitions

Universal Design for Learning (UDL): A framework that offers multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression to accommodate learner variability.

Learning Disability: A neurological condition affecting skills like reading (dyslexia) or math (dyscalculia), not tied to intelligence.

Academic Coaching: Goal-oriented guidance helping students self-regulate learning processes.

Ready to launch your career? Browse higher-ed jobs, seek higher ed career advice, check university jobs, or post your listing at recruitment on AcademicJobs.com for top Learning Specialist jobs.