IT Learning Support Specialist Adjunct Instructor

WHO WE ARE - National Louis University (NLU), founded in 1886, is a private, non-profit university based in Chicago, IL serving nearly 10,000 students across five colleges. In November 2020, the University launched Accelerate U, a new division at the university offering rapid pathways to high-demand skills, post-secondary degrees, and an upwardly-mobile job and career. The Accelerate U team works with employers and non-profit operators to build affordable academic and training pathways that 1) lead to an industry-recognized credential/certificate, 2) bridge to an in-demand, upwardly-mobile job, 3) include coaching and wraparound supports, and 4) grant participants Pell-eligible college credit that can build to a bachelor's degree.

Accelerate U currently offers two IT certificate programs, the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certificate Program and the new IT Support Specialist (ITSS) Certificate Program (launching Fall 2024). Both programs are 24 weeks and designed to support students in completing the respective certifications (CCNA or CompTIA A+) and moving into full time jobs within these field upon completion. Each program consists of five courses, which take place over two 12-week terms. Through each of the programs, participants work with a career coach to develop the durable skills needed to be successful in their job including effective problem-solving, collaboration, reliability, confidence, and social awareness.

The AU Technical Learning Support Specialist will support instructors in either or both programs by assisting with course preparation, providing technical assistance to students during and outside of class time, and facilitating lab sessions to enhance learning outcomes. Based on experience and qualifications, the Technical Learning Support Specialist may assist with both or focus solely on supporting one of the programs (either CCNA or ITSS).

WHO YOU ARE-

You are: Driven to Succeed.
You are energetic and passionate about supporting a diverse student body, including many first-generation students new to the college environment. To be successful providing tutoring and learning support for this program, you must be committed to collaboration and coordination with the course instructors. The position requires agility, creativity, and engagement while helping students navigate a new curriculum and enhancing their learning experience. Enthusiastic candidates believe that all students

can succeed. As an active team member, you believe in fostering a supportive environment and a student-driven culture.

You will: Offer Best-in-Class Teaching and Learning Support You see this position as an opportunity to learn and build your skills in instruction within higher education. Each term, you will support blended classes that utilize technology and data to drive instruction. You will collaborate with a dedicated team of Coaches and Instructors, Content Experts, and Data Analysts to personalize the learning experience for students. In addition to providing academic support, you will focus on fostering a growth mindset, enhancing non-cognitive skill development, nurturing academic confidence, and preparing students for their professional pathways.

You are ready to: Make an Impact. Each and every day, this program changes lives. You want to be a part of that meaningful impact. Through the entire program, participants work with a coach to develop the durable skills needed to be successful in their job including effective communication, problem solving, and time management.innovation. You are someone that will always look for creative ways for students to earn success. We know this work is challenging, but we are in it together.

Candidates should have experience as an IT Help Desk or Support professional for supporting the ITSS program and/or be CCNA certified for supporting the CCNA program. Candidates should also have experience engaging with students or entry level professionals to train, mentor, or support their technical and professional development. This is a part-time position, typically 8-12 hours a week, that requires collaboration on a regular basis with the support team that surrounds each student. Typically course instruction takes place twice weekly in the evening, requiring virtual and on-campus support to students. Additional weekend or evening hours may also be required.

About NLU:

National Louis University (NLU) is looking to honor its past while defining a bold new future as a contemporary, comprehensive university that prepares diverse students for sustained professional success with a deep commitment to Access, Excellence, Innovation and Equity. The university is focused on inspiring and empowering all learners to be leaders ready to address tomorrow's challenges in the context of increasing global urbanization. NLU is dedicated to providing a career-building, life-changing education that is accessible to all students. The University offers 80 +programs within its five colleges: National College of Education, Kendall College of Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management, Undergraduate College, College of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences and the School of Business and Information Technology. The University serves over 9,700 students per year and has experienced unprecedented growth in its undergraduate programming. Most students are from Illinois, but the University also attracts students from throughout the U.S. and from around the world who take advantage of campus based, blended and online programming.

Founded in 1886, National Louis University is a private not-for-profit university offering programs through the doctoral level. NLU is also classified as an Engaged Institution by the Carnegie Foundation and has been named as a top ten institution by Money Magazine where its alumni believe they are making the world "a better place." The University has had more Golden Apple Award winners among its graduates in teacher preparation than any institution across the state. The University has a deep commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and is among the top 25 most diverse national universities according to U.S. News and World Report (2019). Graduates from NLU enter the workforce earning an estimated $43,000 per year after graduation, ranking NLU among the top five of all Illinois post-secondary schools. The University has received more than $80 million in funding for applied research projects in urban development, child development, school improvement, and teacher preparation. NLU recognized as a national leader in closing the post-secondary completion through its innovative approach to undergraduate education. NLU is located in the center of Chicago's downtown loop, across the street from the Art Institute, in an area which has been recognized as America's largest campus with over25 institutions and 50,000 students attending a college across the city. In addition, the University has several suburban locations and a Florida regional campus.

Attend virtual (zoom) and in-person sessions, supporting small group work and individual students. Includes preparation and support setting up class.
• Facilitate supplemental Saturday or additional evening workshops for students who are in need of additional support on specific skills.
• Conduct outreach and set up individual check-in sessions with students who are behind, documenting outreach and support.
• Collaborate with the instructor and other learning support specialists to implement an effective student experience for students.
• Utilize technology-based platforms, including D2L (our Learning Management System), courseware (i.e., CompTIA, Cengage), and other systems to understand content and monitor student support.
• Maintain current and active knowledge of best practices in IT support, including customer service skills.
• Communicate professionally, relate well, and share a passion for college success for diverse learners.
• Participate in weekly virtual meetings with a Career Coach (who supports learners in the program) and Accelerate U Staff to report student progress and obstacles.

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