Sessional Lecturing Jobs

🎓 What is Sessional Lecturing?

Sessional lecturing, also known as sessional instructing, is a type of academic position where educators are hired on a short-term contract to teach specific courses during a particular academic session or semester. This role fills temporary gaps in teaching staff, providing flexibility for universities facing fluctuating enrollment or specialized course needs. Unlike permanent faculty positions, sessional lecturing jobs emphasize teaching over research, allowing professionals to contribute expertise without full-time commitment.

The meaning of sessional lecturing centers on its contractual nature—typically lasting 3 to 6 months—making it ideal for retirees, industry experts, or those pursuing PhDs. In higher education, these positions have grown since the 1990s amid budget pressures, now comprising up to 50% of teaching staff in some institutions. For example, in U.S. territories like American Samoa, American Samoa Community College (ASCC), established in 1970, relies on sessional lecturers to deliver associate-level courses in fields such as nursing, marine science, and Samoan studies, addressing local workforce demands.

Roles and Responsibilities of Sessional Lecturers

Sessional lecturers prepare and deliver lectures, design assessments, grade student work, and provide feedback. They often hold office hours, mentor students, and adapt content to diverse classrooms. In smaller institutions like those in American Samoa, duties may extend to curriculum input or community outreach, fostering practical skills relevant to Pacific Island contexts.

• Delivering engaging lectures and tutorials
• Assessing assignments and exams
• Updating course materials based on current trends
• Supporting student success through advising

Required Qualifications for Sessional Lecturing Jobs

To secure sessional lecturing jobs, candidates need strong academic credentials. Required academic qualifications usually include a master's degree in the relevant field, with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) preferred for upper-level courses. Research focus or expertise is essential, particularly publications in peer-reviewed journals or conference presentations demonstrating subject mastery.

Preferred experience encompasses prior teaching at university level, successful course delivery, or grant-funded projects. In American Samoa, familiarity with Polynesian cultures or vocational training enhances candidacy.

Key skills and competencies include:

• Excellent communication and presentation abilities
• Proficiency in learning management systems like Canvas
• Adaptability to varied student backgrounds
• Commitment to inclusive pedagogy

Actionable advice: Build a teaching portfolio with student evaluations and syllabi samples. Check out how to write a winning academic CV for tailored applications.

History and Context in Higher Education

Sessional lecturing evolved post-World War II as universities expanded amid rising enrollments. By the 1980s, fiscal constraints shifted reliance to contingent faculty, a trend continuing today—over 70% of U.S. faculty are non-tenure-track. In Pacific regions like American Samoa, these roles support ASCC's mission since 1970, offering pathways amid limited full-time openings. Globally, they provide entry points to academia, with many transitioning to permanent roles after 2-5 years of experience.

Finding and Applying for Sessional Lecturing Opportunities

Opportunities arise via university job boards, academic networks, or sites listing lecturer jobs and higher ed faculty positions. In American Samoa, monitor ASCC announcements for terms starting in fall or spring. Prepare by gaining certifications in online teaching and networking at conferences.

Explore broader resources on higher-ed-jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post your opening via post a job services to connect with qualified candidates.