Overview
With approximately 16,000 students, Northern Illinois University (NIU) is one of the largest public universities in the state of Illinois. NIU strives to improve outcomes for all students by identifying and removing barriers that disproportionately hinder the academic achievement and student experience of historically and currently underserved populations. As the direct descendant of NIU’s origin as the Northern Illinois State Normal School opened to prepare teachers, the College of Education continues that legacy as the state’s second largest producer of teachers. Students prepare for, or advance in, professional careers across the P-20 educational spectrum as teachers and administrators and in fields such as counseling, higher education, student affairs, exercise science, athletic training and sport management. We cultivate an equity-focused, inclusive, engaging and supportive learning environment that inspires students, faculty and staff to strive for excellence. We commit to proactively meeting the changing educational and professional needs of students and their fields while advancing teaching, learning, research, practice and advocacy in our program areas. NIU’s geographical reach extends beyond its main DeKalb campus (65 miles west of downtown Chicago, 60 miles from the O’Hare International Airport, and 40 miles west of Naperville – a booming community with one of the best school systems in the nation) to satellite campuses in Naperville, Chicago and abroad as well as to students online.
Position Summary
This Visiting Assistant Professor will facilitate the successful progression of early childhood teacher candidates through the licensure program by supervising field experiences and teaching methods courses. Provide developmental feedback to teacher candidates in field experiences to promote growth in their knowledge and skills. Participate in early childhood program development and department service
The VAP is a 9-month position (August 16, 2023 through May 15, 2024) with the possibility to be renewed for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The Department of Special and Early Education (SEED) at Northern Illinois University seeks a Visiting Assistant Professor (VAP) to work in its growing early childhood licensure program. The VAP will work with students in on- and off-campus cohorts of early childhood teacher candidates. The VAP will carry a four-course teaching load each semester (12 credit hours) with at least 50% of duties related to early childhood field experiences. The VAP will participate in early childhood program development activities and department-level service. The VAP is encouraged to collaborate with faculty in on-going scholarship activities.
Minimum Required Qualifications
a doctorate in early childhood education or a closely related field, and three years of experience working in public or private schools in early childhood (preK through grade 2) settings. Preferred qualifications include a) credentials and work experience in early childhood special education or special education in the elementary grades, b) experience in teacher preparation programs or mentoring novice teachers, and c) demonstrated effectiveness in teaching in higher education.
Additional Requirements
N/A
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred qualifications include a) English as a Second Language and/or Bilingual education credentials and experience, b) experience in teacher preparation programs or mentoring novice teachers, and c) demonstrated effectiveness in teaching in higher education.
Physical Demands Summary
Sitting, Standing
