"Instructor, Astronomy - Adjunct Pool Requisition"

Job Details

Instructor, Astronomy - Adjunct Pool Requisition in Houston, Texas, System Wide. Adjunct position.

SUMMARY

Provide the expertise and knowledge that supports the college curriculum and programs. Establish courses following accepted higher education standards, teach students using a variety of effective methodologies and provide engagement and support activities that encourage student learning. The role of the Instructional Faculty encompasses teaching and learning, academic advising, professional development, and institutional and community service. The incumbent may teach a maximum load of 9.75 contact hours per week each semester in area(s) of competency and participate as a part-time instructor in the activities of the department, division, and college.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate skill and/or knowledge in teaching discipline.
• Make continuous efforts to improve the quality of instruction by reviewing and utilizing innovative methodologies, techniques, and delivery methods.
• Develop and use a syllabus for each course or laboratory within college, discipline, and departmental guidelines and submit one copy to the department chair.
• Plan, develop, and use a variety of teaching methods and materials that assist students in meeting course objectives, and which are appropriate for students with differing educational and experiential backgrounds and learning styles.
• Evaluate students to measure their progress toward achievement of stated course objectives and inform them of their progress in the course in a timely manner.
• Keep accurate student records and submit related reports and forms within requested timelines.
• Review, evaluate, and recommend student textbooks and learning materials.
• Teach courses at a variety of times, locations, and modalities in response to institutional programmatic needs.
• Develop and maintain an LMS (Learning Management System) shell for each assigned course.
• Use equipment and facilities responsibly and courteously. Where appropriate, assist the chair with the routine maintenance of instructional laboratories.
• Demonstrate competence and interest in the use of technology in the classroom and willingness to explore new instructional methodologies.

Academic Advising:

• Maintain professional relationships with students, colleagues, and the community.
• Provide access to students through posted office hours, electronic communication, and other appropriate methods. Provide advice and assistance to students regarding instructional or program-specific issues during class time and office hours.

Professional Development:

• Establish annual objectives for professional growth in consultation with the department chair.
• Keep pace with developments in the discipline.
• Learn technologies that support student learning.
• Participate in department-required annual evaluation process.

Institutional and Community Service:

• Part-time faculty are encouraged but not required to participate in department’s, college, or district committees and governance organizations.
• Be familiar with and adhere to all policies and procedures of HCCS.
• Participate in activities required to maintain program and college accreditation standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above.

EDUCATION

Master’s degree (or higher) with 18 completed graduate hours in Astronomy, Aerospace Engineering, Astrophysics, Space Studies, Applied Physics, Physics, Planetary Science or related field required. A Master’s degree (or higher) with extensive Astronomy experience and/or Astronomy training may be considered in lieu of 18 graduate hours in a qualifying field. Copy of transcript conferring required degree and certifications must accompany application.

EXPERIENCE

1 year college-level teaching experience preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Willing and able to teach day or evening classes at a number of sites around the city.
• Knowledge and skill in a variety of computer usage and software are required.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively.
• Possess good organizational and planning skills.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to students with different academic and socio-economic backgrounds and students with disabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to inspire and motivate students in a learning-centered environment.
• Self-disciplined and able to effectively manage others.