Vacancy: Assistant Professor - Chinese, University of Alaska

02 October 2010
Vacancy: Assistant Professor - Chinese, University of Alaska
This position is for a Director of the Confucius Institute with a tenure-track appointment for Assistant or Associate Professor (depending on applicant rank and experience) of Chinese in the Department of Languages. This is a 12 month academic appointment with a nine month base and an additional 1-3 months contingent upon funding.

The Confucius Institute is co-sponsored by the Office of Chinese Language Council International (Hanban) and exists to promote the teaching of Chinese language and culture. The Director provides overall leadership for the development and activities of UAA CI. The Institute's activities include, but are not limited to, providing undergraduate instruction in Mandarin Chinese language at UAA, promoting Chinese at the K-12 level, supporting the training and professional development of Chinese language teachers, offering non-credit, community-based language programs in Mandarin Chinese, sponsoring public programs on Chinese culture and language, and partnering with other units at UAA as well as public and private entities to serve communities, businesses, schools, government, non-profit organizations, and the media. CI supports the University of Alaska Anchorage's tripartite mission of performing teaching, research, and public service.

The position of CI Director will be primarily responsible for the establishment and administration of such programs. As tenure-track faculty in Languages, candidates are expected to teach Chinese, coordinate the Chinese instruction, and develop the Chinese curriculum. Candidates will participate in programmatic and department-wide activities.

Knowledge, skills and abilities required for this position. Ability to comprehend written material in both English and Mandarin Chinese and analyze, interpret, and apply complex policies, rules, and regulations relating to the administration of the UAA Confucius Institute, and make responsible decisions. Ability to establish and to maintain effective working relationships with individuals and groups locally and in China, and to work successfully as a member of the team. Strong personal skills, public speaking skills, and the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing (in English as well as in Mandarin Chinese) with constituencies in diverse local, regional, and international communities. Ability to exercise good judgment in analyzing situations, making good decisions, and presenting facts and opinions. Ability to supervise and lead staff and work teams, including planning and organizing work, scheduling, training, and directing the work of others. In-depth comprehension of Chinese culture, language, history, and current Chinese national issues. Knowledge in fund raising. Ability to teach Chinese language, literature, and culture at various college undergraduate levels. Experience in language curriculum design. A strong research background. Must have sensitivity to a diverse student population.

Typical education or training required for this position (including licenses). Ph.D. or ABD (with degree completed by July 1, 2011) in Chinese language, literature or culture and responsible experience related to the delivery of Chinese language and culture programs. Native or near-native proficiency in Mandarin Chinese and English.

Length of time and type of experience required for this position. Responsible experience related to the delivery of Chinese language and culture programs or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience with Chinese language and culture programs at the college level.

Preferred knowledge, skills or abilities for this position. Familiarity with recent research in 2nd language acquisition, teaching methods, and integration of technology in the classroom. Potential in language program coordination, and familiarity with diverse language departments with a strong interest in community engagement and building partnerships.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please attach the following:
1. Cover letter
2. Comprehensive curriculum vita including your education history, evidence of teaching ability, research/creative activity, and administrative experiences. Include your email address, FAX number, and phone numbers where you can be reached.
3.Three letters of recommendations (must include the names, positions, e-mail addresses, and telephone numbers of your references)
4.Statement of teaching philosophy in English
5.Statement of administrative/leadership philosophy and major accomplishments in English (Supplemental docuent (1)
6.Writing sample in Chinese (Supplemental document 2)

Please attach or mail the following required documents to:

Natasa Masanovic
Department of Languages
University of Alaska Anchorage
3211 Providence Drive
Anchorage, AK 99508

Official transcripts (Official transcripts must be mailed. However, an unofficial copy may be attached as Transcript (1).

More information here.
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