About the University of Denver:
The University of Denver is a private institution that empowers students who want to make a difference. As a leading liberal arts university, we offer a unique blend of academic rigor, innovative research, and community engagement. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion creates a vibrant and inclusive learning environment that prepares students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
About the Center for World Languages and Cultures:
The Center for World Languages and Cultures (CWLC) is a hub for language and culture learning at the University of Denver. Our mission is to promote engaged learning, teaching, and practice of the world's languages and cultures, and to integrate languages and cultures into all disciplines and fields of study. We strive to build and support interculturally competent communities through the exploration and experience of languages and cultures at the University of Denver and beyond.
About the Position:
We are seeking an experienced Teaching Assistant Professor in Arabic Language and Culture to join our dynamic team at the University of Denver. As a key member of the CWLC, you will play a critical role in teaching, curriculum development, and program assessment for our Arabic language program. If you are passionate about language teaching, culturally responsive pedagogy, and community engagement, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities:
- Teach eight classes over three academic quarters, including first-year language courses, culture courses taught in English contributing to the Common Curriculum, and intermediate-level language courses.
- Develop first-year sequence curriculum and assessments.
- Develop courses taught in English related to topics about Arabic-speaking cultures.
- Design a recruitment plan to grow the Arabic program on campus, working with the Middle East Studies minor advisor as appropriate.
- Assess the first-year Arabic program annually.
- Participate in CWLC meetings and committees, as well as CAHSS and University committees.
- Actively collaborate with CWLC colleagues and with the department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures program faculty on recruitment and language advocacy initiatives.
Essential Qualifications:
- Master's degree or ABD in Arabic Studies, Arabic Linguistics, in Second Language Acquisition with a focus on Arabic, or in Education.
- Closely related fields will be given consideration as well.
- Native or near-native fluency level in Arabic and English.
- 2 years of teaching experience of a university-level language course in the United States (e.g., Teaching Assistant as an "instructor of record" with grading responsibilities).
- Evidence of teaching using task-based, communicative methodologies which prioritize student-student interactions.
- Evidence of implementing culturally responsive teaching practices.
- Experience or willingness to learn course management systems such as Canvas.
- Availability to teach classes "face-to-face" in physical classrooms at the University of Denver.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Arabic Studies, Arabic Linguistics, in Second Language Acquisition with a focus on Arabic, or in Education.
- Closely related fields will be given consideration as well.
- 3 + years previous experience teaching a university-level course in Arabic in the United States as the primary instructor, especially with courses from the first-year language sequence.
- Experience in program development.
- Extended residence or/and extensive travel in the Arabic-speaking world.
- Experience interacting with and effectively teaching diverse communities of students.
- Experience managing a course via Canvas.
Skills and Competencies:
We are looking for a candidate who possesses the following skills and competencies:
- Excellent teaching and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and students.
- Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits:
The University of Denver offers a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including:
- Professional development opportunities through the University's Center for Teaching and Learning.
- Access to a range of language and culture resources through the CWLC.
- Opportunities to collaborate with colleagues from diverse disciplines and backgrounds.
- Support for research and scholarship through the University's Research Office.
Work Environment and Company Culture:
The University of Denver is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment that values and respects the contributions of all employees. We offer a range of benefits and perks, including:
- A competitive salary and benefits package.
- A comprehensive health insurance plan.
- A retirement savings plan.
- A generous paid time off policy.
- A tuition benefit for employees and their families.
- An ECO pass for free public transportation.
Compensation and Benefits:
The salary range for this position is $58,000 - $60,000 per year. The University of Denver offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit, and ECO pass.
How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please submit the following documents through our online application system:
- A cover letter (1 to 2 pages) including a statement of how the applicant can contribute to values, practices, and actions regarding diversity, equity, and inclusivity.
- A C.V.
- A one-page statement on teaching philosophy, addressing culturally responsive teaching practices.
- Original sample lesson plan for an elementary Arabic language course with materials supporting learning activities and explanations in English.
- A sample syllabus, preferably of a first-year language course.
- Names and contact information of three references.
Application Deadline:
The application deadline is September 5, 2023. We encourage applicants to apply early, as we will begin reviewing applications immediately.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age (40 years and over in the employment context), religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, veterans status, and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination under federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance in any of the university's educational programs and activities, and in the employment (including application for employment) and admissions (including application for admission) context.
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