Coordinator, Prior Learning Assessment-Programming & Curriculum at University of Houston - Downtown in Houston, Texas

Job Description:

The Coordinator of Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) assists the Office of the Provost in developing and overseeing UHD's range of PLA initiatives. The Coordinator supports the development of assessment instruments, tracks the applications for all prior learning credits, keeps current on accreditation requirements and trends in prior learning assessment, and notifies academic departments of changes in testing and discipline-specific opportunities. The Coordinator promotes prior learning options, addresses, and coordinates student queries, and manages the administration of assessments while maintaining records and preparing reports as needed for the grant that supports the position.

DUTIES

1. Works collaboratively with faculty, administration, and outside agencies to review, recommend, and revise policies and practices related to evaluating and awarding credit for students' prior learning.  The Coordinator will ensure UHD's policies and practices are in compliance with accreditation standards.


2. Assists faculty in identifying and designing appropriate assessment instruments used in the evaluation of students prior learning and aligning those instruments with the outcomes and content of UHD courses.


3. Consults in the design and ongoing management of a campus-wide database to track the number of students pursuing prior learning assessment activities, including information on tests administered, credits awarded, and methods used to award credit.


4. Evaluates assesses and implements strategies to improve the process with the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program continuously.


5. Prepares or contributes to quarterly and annual productivity and effectiveness reports.


6. Works with the Registrar to ensure prior learning credit reflects on student records and is captured in articulation processes per university policy.


7. Conducts training sessions to assist faculty, advisors, and admissions staff in understanding their roles in the prior learning assessment process.


8. Assumes a lead role in assisting students in determining the appropriateness of pursuing prior learning credits based on students' individual circumstances and experiences in consultation with discipline-specific faculty as appropriate.


9. Serves as point of contact and resource to answer questions from students, faculty, and staff related to prior learning credits at UHD.


10. Creates and maintains, in coordination with appropriate divisions, all print and electronic media related to current practices, policies, and procedures in the awarding of prior learning credit.

MARGINAL DUTIES

1. Performs other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Reports: None
Delegation of Work: N/A
Supervision Given: N/A

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge:

1. Knowledge of trends, issues, and accepted practices relevant to the assessment of prior student learning such as assessment of learning outcomes, test development and item analysis, portfolio design and assessment, and rubric development and norming.


2. Knowledge of external services used in the documentation of prior learning such as ACE credit, CLEP, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate programs.

Skills:

1. Candidates must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent interpersonal and strong written and oral communication skills.


2. Proficiency with Windows, MS Word, and MS Excel software.


3. Proficiency in analyzing data and preparing reports.

Abilities:

1. Ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community.


2. Ability to organize and work independently as a leader and as part of a team.

WORK LOCATION AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Primary Work Location: Works in an office environment

Physical Demands: Work is normally performed in a typical interior work environment that does not subject the employee to any unpleasant elements. The position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks.

EEO/AA

Required Education:

1. Master's degree

Required Experience:

1. Minimum of two (2) years of job-related experience


2. Experience teaching credit-bearing courses in higher education


3. Experience or academic preparation in assessment or test design


4. Experience working with university-level faculty

License/Certification: None Required

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. PhD


2. Experience with best practices in the assessment of students' prior learning and related academic issues


3. Demonstrated understanding of competency-based education


4. Experience conducting workshops and training for university faculty and staff


5. Knowledge of MS Access and/or PeopleSoft