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Academic Affairs

The Learning Specialist is responsible for providing individualized support and services to students with disabilities to enhance their academic success, specifically FY students. This role involves assessing students' learning needs, developing tailored educational strategies, and working closely with faculty and other campus resources. The Learning Specialist plays a crucial role in facilitating accessible learning environments and promoting the principles of universal design in education. Reporting to the Associate Director for the Office of Disability and Access, the Learning Specialist supports the aspirational goals of the social model or similar accommodations models within the resources provided by a small liberal arts college and in collaboration with academic advising, residence life, student affairs and other relevant offices.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Educational Strategy Development: Assist the associate director in designing and implementing effective learning strategies and accommodations for students with disabilities. Utilize a variety of instructional techniques to promote learning and retention. Develop and implement training programs focused on equity and universal design for faculty, staff, and students regarding disability and access models such as the social model or other equity-based accommodations models.
• Student Support: Conduct assessments of students' learning styles, strengths, and areas for development to create personalized learning plans. Offer ongoing academic coaching and skills development in areas such as time management, note-taking, studying, and test-taking strategies.
• Faculty Collaboration:Partner with faculty to support the implementation of accessible teaching methods and accommodations in the classroom. Provide guidance on best practices for inclusive instruction that meets the diverse needs of learners.
• Resource Development:Develop and maintain resources for students, including guides on study skills, academic strategies, and information on campus support services. Create materials to support faculty in understanding and implementing accommodations and accessible teaching practices.
• Training and Workshops: Assist the associate director and the academic advising team in planning and delivering workshops for students on academic skills and self-advocacy. Provide training sessions for faculty and staff on disability awareness, the various models of disability and access accommodations, especially the social model, and strategies for creating inclusive learning environments.
• Case Management: Maintain detailed records of student progress and accommodations. Monitor the effectiveness of learning strategies and make adjustments as needed. Serve as a liaison between students, faculty, and the Office for Disability and Access.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the Associate Director and other staff members within the Office for Disability and Access and the Institute for Student Success to ensure a coordinated approach to supporting students. Participate in team meetings and contribute to the development of office policies and procedures.
• Professional Development: Stay abreast of current research and best practices in the field of learning disabilities, neurodiversity, and higher education accessibility. Engage in professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills.

Other Duties:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Job responsibilities and activities may be modified or changed at any time with or without notice. Job descriptions will be audited periodically by the Ursinus Human Resources department to ensure they are up-to-date and reflect the essential responsibilities and duties of the job.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in special education, psychology, or a related field required
• Experience working with students with disabilities in an educational setting, preferably in higher education
• Knowledge of learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and other neurodiverse conditions
• Familiarity with assistive technologies and educational software
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to develop and implement innovative educational strategies and interventions
• Commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive campus environment that supports the success of students with disabilities
• Knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Fair Housing Act
• Commitment to professional development and awareness of current case law
• Familiarity with academic, residential, social, and housing/dining accommodations

Ursinus College is a selective, independent, co-educational, residential liberal arts college of approximately 1500 students located about 25 miles northwest of center city Philadelphia. With a diverse community of students, it is an expectation of all faculty to contribute to the inclusion, engagement, and success of all students. Ursinus is an EEO employer. Ursinus College does not discriminate on grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, creed, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, disability, or other classification protected by applicable law in the administration of any of its educational programs or activities or with respect to employment.

Ursinus College participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. Employment is contingent upon completion of the Form I-9 and verification through E-Verify.

This position may be offered at a different title or level, depending on the background, qualifications, and experience of the candidate selected.