Learning Specialist Jobs in Australia

🎓 What is a Learning Specialist?

A Learning Specialist is a vital professional in higher education who helps students master academic skills and overcome learning challenges. In simple terms, the Learning Specialist meaning revolves around being an expert guide for university students, focusing on enhancing their ability to succeed independently. This role, prominent in Australian universities, emerged in the late 20th century as higher education expanded to include diverse learners, evolving from basic study skills advisors to sophisticated educators using evidence-based strategies.

In Australia, Learning Specialists work in academic skills centres at institutions like the University of Sydney or Monash University, supporting undergraduates and postgraduates alike. They address gaps in academic literacy (reading and writing critically), numeracy, and time management, ensuring students thrive in rigorous programs.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Learning Specialists engage in a range of activities tailored to student needs. They conduct individual consultations to diagnose learning issues and co-create personalized plans. Group workshops cover topics like essay structuring, referencing with APA style (common in Australian academia), and exam techniques.

• Developing online resources and self-access modules for flexible learning.
• Collaborating with lecturers to embed skills into courses.
• Analyzing student data to measure intervention impacts.
• Supporting equity groups, such as international students adapting to Australian academic culture.

This multifaceted role demands adaptability, especially with the rise of blended learning post-2020.

Required Academic Qualifications, Expertise, Experience, and Skills

To secure Learning Specialist jobs in Australia, candidates need strong academic credentials. A Master's degree in Education, Applied Linguistics, or Educational Psychology is standard, with a PhD preferred for research-intensive roles.

Research focus or expertise needed: Specialize in learning analytics, inclusive pedagogies, or digital literacies. Contributions to scholarly work, such as papers on student retention, are advantageous.

Preferred experience: At least three years in teaching or student support, ideally with grants for educational innovations or publications in outlets like the Higher Education Research & Development journal.

Skills and competencies include:

• Empathetic communication and active listening.
• Proficiency in tools like Canvas or Blackboard LMS.
• Data literacy for tracking student progress.
• Cultural competence, vital in multicultural Australian campuses.

These align with national standards from bodies like the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).

Learning Specialists in Australian Higher Education

Australia's higher education sector, with over 40 universities, increasingly invests in student success amid enrollment pressures. Learning Specialists at places like the University of Queensland help boost graduation rates, which hover around 80% for domestic students. Salaries typically fall between AUD 95,000 for entry-level (Academic Level A/B) to 125,000 for seniors, per university enterprise agreements.

The role gained prominence with policies like the 2020 Job-ready Graduates Package, emphasizing skills development. For career insights, check advice on university lecturer salaries or excelling in Australian research roles.

Career Tips for Aspiring Learning Specialists

To land Learning Specialist jobs, tailor your application with evidence of impact, like improved student feedback scores. Network via conferences from the Australian Learning and Teaching Fellows. Gain experience through sessional roles in academic skills units.

Prepare a standout CV by following guides like how to write a winning academic CV. Stay updated on trends via higher ed career advice.

Next Steps for Learning Specialist Opportunities

Ready to advance? Browse higher ed jobs, university jobs, and higher ed career advice for openings. Institutions post roles regularly—post a job if recruiting. AcademicJobs.com connects you to top Australian positions.