The University of Southern Maine's Department of Linguistics is seeking part-time instructor applicants to our Beginning American Sign Language (ASL 101) course for our Spring 2025 semester, beginning January 21, 2025.
Beginning American Sign Language (ASL 101) - This is a beginning course in American Sign Language (ASL). It will include extensive study of receptive and expressive use of ASL, as well as an introductory discussion of Deaf culture. Course content covers basic principles in the use of sign, sign vocabulary, and aspects of the grammar of ASL. In addition to class sessions, students will use written materials and other media outside of class. This course has a community interaction requirement of four hours over the semester.
We are seeking a student-focused instructor who will be responsible for the full delivery and grading of the course. Responsibilities include developing the course, teaching, assessing student performance, and meeting with students as needed. The instructor will be provided with the course syllabus, learning objectives, program competencies, and curriculum materials from last year's instruction, which may be used as needed.
The Department of Linguistics (https://usm.maine.edu/department-linguistics/) is an undergraduate program within the College of Science, Technology and Health. Linguistics students can major in general linguistics or in a number of concentrations. We also offer several minors.
Part-time faculty members are paid on a credit hour basis based on prior teaching experience. In addition, USM employees can use their USM Card to access the library, Cigna Employee Assistance Plan, and fitness center(s). USM also offers part-time faculty the opportunity for development frequently through our Center for Collaboration and Development (CCD) and the chance to get an online teaching certification and training through CTEL, in addition to other developmental opportunities open to all staff throughout the year.
The University of Southern Maine (https://usm.maine.edu/) is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond.
USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University (https://usm.maine.edu/about-our-university/) .
The University of Southern Maine embraces an inclusive campus community that values the expression of differences in ways that promote excellence in teaching, learning, personal development, and institutional success. The Office of Equity, Inclusion and Community Impact (https://usm.maine.edu/equity-inclusion-community-impact/) supports USM's DEIA- and Community Impact-focused departments, committees, groups, projects, training, and events. USM encourages women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and people from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds to apply.
We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.
Required Qualifications:
Native to near-native signing ability, ASLPI 4-5, possession of ASLTA or willingness to work toward ASLTA certification
B.A. or advanced degree (except as supervised co-instructors).
To apply, click on the 'Apply Now' button below or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:
Cover letter describing qualifications for the position.
Curriculum vitae or resume with contact information for three professional references.
We will begin reviewing applications immediately. These positions will remain open until filled.
We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.
Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.
Clery Act:
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies. View the University's Annual Security Report (PDF) (https://usm.maine.edu/public-safety/annual-security-and-fire-safety-report/) . If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please email (usmdeanofstudents@maine.edu) or call 207.780.4035.
EEO Statement:
In complying with the letter and spirit of applicable laws and pursuing its own goals of diversity, the University of Maine System does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability physical or mental, genetic information, or veterans or military status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5713, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).
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