Centre for Open and Distance Learning

Transcription

1 MZUZU UNIVERSITY Centre for Open and Distance Learning Mzuzu University invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following staff positions tenable at its Centre for Open and Distance Learning (CODL). 1. COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS MANAGER Post Overview Install, configure, and administer Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), and Internet system at Centre for Open and Distance Learning and Satellite Learning Centres throughout the country. Operate in conjunction with Mzuzu University ICT Directorate, faculties and administration to ensure full compatibility and alignment of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) with other Mzuzu University systems. Carry out computer hardware and software upgrades. Design and maintain electronic learning management systems, and management information systems. Build student and staff capacity on how to use the Internet and web-based learning resources. He/she will report to the Director of Centre for Open and Distance Learning. Qualifications and desirable attributes A minimum of a Bachelor s degree in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) or related subject obtained from registered and accredited institution. Those with a teaching background will have an added advantage Excellent knowledge of networking, software design and management, and database management Knowledge of budgeting and resource mobilization Excellent command of English language Good presentation skills Good interpersonal skills Duties Design, customise and manage electronic learning management systems (LMS); and management information systems (MIS) for the Centre for Open and Distance Learning. Guarantee the smooth running of all ICT systems, including anti-virus software, print services and provision.

2 Manage videoconferencing facilities at Centre for Open and Distance Learning, and Satellite Learning Centres. Offer professional technical advice to the Centre for Open and Distance Learning on ICT related matters. Plan, develop and implement ICT budget cost-effectively. Plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures in order to protect data, software, and hardware. Mentor and train academic staff and ODL students in computer system use Maintain and administer computer networks and related computing environments Schedule upgrades and security backups of hardware and software systems. Provide secure access to the network for remote users. Recommend changes to improve systems and network configurations, and determine hardware or software requirements related to such changes. Monitor network performance in order to determine whether repairs or adjustments need to be made, and to determine where changes will need to be made in the future. Gather data pertaining to student needs, and use the information to identify, predict, interpret, and evaluate system and network requirements. Taking part in orientation and examination activities of the ODL delivery mode Writing and/or repackaging instructional materials in one s subject area for the online learning environment Assisting with content editing of both print and e-modules Arranging for and supervising e-module production sessions Assisting with any other duties as may be assigned. 2. ODL CURRICULUM SPECIALIST Post Overview In conjunction with the Mzuzu University Faculties providing the programmes and the directorate of Quality Assurance and Enhancement, the incumbent will be responsible for: overseeing all activities relating to ODL curriculum design, review and development; coordinating teaching and learning, planning instructional materials development activities; and quality assurance related matters for all programmes offered through the open and distance learning delivery mode at Mzuzu University. He/she will report to the Director of Centre for Open and Distance Learning. Qualifications and desirable attributes Applicants for the post must have the following qualifications and attributes: A minimum of a Bachelor s degree in Education or relevant subject with at least a credit pass from a registered and accredited institution. Those with a relevant postgraduate degree and experience of ODL

3 Curriculum Design and Development (for online and/or print modes) will have an advantage. At least two years teaching experience at secondary or tertiary level and / or with a distance education institution, with a specific role in curriculum development. Those with experience at tertiary level and / or relating to distance education curriculum will have an added advantage. Ability to use technology to enhance teaching and learning Excellent command of English language Good interpersonal skills Knowledge and experience in organizing training workshops Ability to work in a poorly resourced but complex environment with minimum supervision Knowledge of budgeting and resource mobilization for the institution Demonstrable knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and such other end-user packages. Duties and responsibilities Duties shall include but not only limited to: Planning and running short courses in ODL Curriculum development Guiding faculty on packaging of instructional materials for ODL delivery mode Identifying adjunct faculty for ODL delivery mode Assisting with content editing of both print and e-modules Arranging for and supervising e-module production sessions Assisting in identifying module writers Taking part in orientation and examination activities of the ODL delivery mode Organizing and conducting ODL materials development workshops Writing ODL instructional materials in one s subject area In liaison with subject specialists, recommend appropriate teaching and learning resources for Satellite Learning Centres Coordinating practical learning experiences in liaison with subject specialists Planning and organizing ODL course and programme review workshops Providing guidance to staff on assessment and evaluation principles of ODL learning Coordinating and participating in ODL quality assurance activities Assisting with any other duties as may be assigned.

4 3. ODL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST Post Overview Teaching science and technology through the open and distance learning delivery mode entails a different approach to packaging and delivery of theoretical content and organization of practical work. Mzuzu University wants to engage an ODe-L Science and Technology specialist to facilitate provision of science and technology programmes through its open, distance and e-learning delivery mode. The successful individual will work in conjunction with faculties providing the programmes and will be responsible for: coordinating teaching (including practical work) and learning of science and technology; science and technology ODe-L curriculum review and development, assisting with development of ODe-L science and technology instructional materials, and putting in place quality measures for science and technology programmes offered through the open distance, and e- learning delivery mode. He/she will report to the Director of Centre for Open and Distance Learning. Qualifications and desirable attributes Applicants for this post must have the following qualifications and attributes: A minimum of a good Bachelor s degree in Education (Science) or a good Bachelor s degree in Science with relevant teaching qualifications and experience. At least two years teaching experience at secondary or tertiary level and / or with a distance education institution. Ability to use technology to enhance teaching and learning Good verbal and written communication skills in English. Good interpersonal skills. Knowledge and experience in programme review and organization of training workshops. Ability to work in a poor resourced but complex environment with minimum supervision. Ability to mobilise resources for the institution. Knowledge of budgeting. Duties and responsibilities Duties shall include: Development and review of ODe-L curriculum for science and technology. Oversee the whole process of packaging and delivery of theoretical content and organization of practical work in ODe-L science and technology.

5 Take part in tutoring of ODe-L students during orientation and homestudy sessions. In liaison with subject specialists and Materials Development Manager, facilitate production of instructional materials for the ODe-L mode of delivery. Conduct periodic materials development training workshops for science and technology. In liaison with subject specialists, supporting students on subject specific matters. Guide ODe-L students on subject combination and future employment careers. Timetable practical work in science and technology for ODe-L Centre and Satellite Learning Centres. Produce virtual practical experiments in science and technology for ODe-L students. In liaison with subject specialists build a repertoire of relevant teaching and learning resources for the University, Study Circle, and Satellite Learning Centres facilitators. Identify and support facilitators of study circles for science and technology subjects. Prepare annual budgets for materials and equipment required for science and technology. Coordinate identification of instructional module writers and reviewers in science and technology. Help with identification of External Editors of both print and e- modules Assist with content editing of both print and e-modules. In collaboration with the Computer and Information Systems Manager, update learning resources on the Learning Management System of the University. Coordinating remedial classes at ODe-L Centre and in Satellite Learning Centres during home-study periods using the Video Conferencing system. Hold periodic meetings with heads of science and technology to track emerging curricular issues. Assisting with any other duties as may be assigned. Method of Application Candidates should submit their applications with an up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV), names and contact details of three traceable referees and copies of their academic and professional qualifications, quoting the job title on the envelope to: VAC: CODL University Registrar Mzuzu University

6 Private Bag 201 LUWINGA MZUZU 2 To reach the University not later than Friday, 11 th November, Note that only shortlisted candidates shall be acknowledged.