Discover

The Opportunity

Halifax, NS
Education and Training
Experienced
Full-time

Under the supervision of the Director, Academic Learning Services (ALS), the Academic Learning Specialist: English Language and Communication (ELC) is a key resource for the success and achievement of non-native English-speaking students / English Language Learners (ELLs) in academic communication and intercultural understanding. The position is part of ALS's integrated academic communications instruction and support, including the Writing Centre and Academic Communication, Software and Application Support Centre, and Digital Communication Centre. It serves students directly, and also indirectly by advising faculty on teaching strategies to support ELLs. The position also serves as a resource in intercultural initiatives of the University. In terms of student support, instruction and support are provided to undergraduate and graduate students whose first language is not English both one-on-one as well as in group settings. The position is responsible for developing programming and services for the continuing English-language development of ELLs that build receptive and productive skills (i.e., listening, reading, writing, and speaking/presenting), intercultural awareness in their classes, and other critical skills for producing successful academic work in written and oral modes of communication. The position consults regularly with faculty through appropriate channels and committees to learn the challenges facing those who teach ELLs and discuss strategies for teaching linguistically and culturally diverse classes. It offers programming in support of faculty who teach by way of either one-on-one consultations or group sessions, workshops, seminars, as well as coaching and mentoring. The position also collaborates with The Studio's Educational Developer team in offering workshops and other learning opportunities on linguistic and intercultural issues related to teaching international and non-native English-speaking students

The position makes connections with other areas of the university in support of ELL's academic success and achievement. It is available as a resource to academic and administrative units of the university on development of programs and services to effectively meet the needs of international and non-native English-speaking students working on the continuing development of their English language and intercultural communications skills. The position refers students with non-academic issues and program advising needs to appropriate support offices across campus.

The Academic Learning Specialist: English Language and Communication works out of the Studio for Teaching & Learning Department and reports to Director, Academic Learning Services (ALS).

Group affiliation for this position is with the Administrative, Professional, Confidential (APC) Group. The position is evaluated at a Group 6 (salary range $ 64,789 - $ 83,489). Salary scale can be viewed here.

What you'll do

Responsibilities

To see the full job description, please click here or please request a hard/emailed copy from HR.

What you'll need

Qualifications

To be the successful Academic Learning Specialist: English Language and Communication works you will possess a Master's degree in a field directly related to English language teaching, specifically in higher education. As well as Certificate of English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) and TESL Canada Certificate, Level 3. A minimum of nine (9) years of directly related work experience in a post-secondary setting (demonstrated expertise in teaching plus administration or educational development experience). The potential candidate will possess a proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively and to participate in consultative decision making. Demonstrated skills in planning, project management, and administration. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English; strong presentation and facilitation skills; strong interpersonal skills. Cross-cultural working experience, including the learning of an additional language. Demonstrated skills in training and program evaluation. Excellent knowledge of MS Office, Internet, and e-mail applications.

We're looking for

Core Skills

ACE Communication Students Support Teaching

A little bit about us

Saint Mary’s University

Saint Mary's University is one of Canada's top primary undergraduate universities--known for its international collaborations, leadership in entrepreneurship, and research that benefits local and global communities. Our programs in Arts, Science, Graduate Studies and the Sobey School of Business are among Canada's best and feature professors who are committed to the success of their students. Saint Mary's provides our 7,000 students with a place that fosters possibility, excellent research opportunities, and distinguished graduate and professional programs combined with a caring community. Nestled in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, on Canada's east coast, Saint Mary's University is marked by iconic buildings, green spaces and fresh ocean air. The Saint Mary's University community is committed to a prosperous future for the world-a world without limits.

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Are you interested?

Work With Us

Apply for this opportunity online using our online application system through Career Beacon. Please visit https://www.smu.ca/about/work-at-smu.html to reference the job posting and description and click on "Apply through CareerBeacon" to submit your application or click on "Apply Now" on CareerBeacon.

Qualified candidates should submit the following with their application:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Three Professional References

The position will be posted on September 8 2021 and applications should be received no later than 4:30pm on September 15 2021. No telephone calls please.

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package which can be viewed here on the Saint Mary's University Human Resources website.

At Saint Mary's University equity and diversity are integral to excellence and enrich our community. As an institution committed to fostering an environment of inclusion and respect, we welcome applications from women, Indigenous peoples, racialized persons/visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientation or gender identity and others who might contribute to the growth and enrichment of our community.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at [email protected].

Saint Mary's University promotes a Healthy Campus including a Scent-Free environment and a Smoke-Free Campus.