The Teaching, Learning, and Leadership Division at the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania is recruiting a part-time lecturer to teach the course “EDUC 6186 The In/Formal Learning Experience” for the GSE summer two session starting June 30, 2023, and ending August 4, 2023. The course meets twice a week in the evenings. 

The main goals of the course are: (1) to introduce different informal learning organizations and movements, as well as research for designing and understanding informal learning; (2) to study the design and implementation of informal learning opportunities; and (3) to require students to become an informal learner themselves as they visit a local venue. In the course, students will discuss background readings and central issues in informal learning. This course serves as an elective for students and is often taken by students in different programs throughout GSE. 

Weekly topics include: What is informal learning; Informal science learning; Informal Arts & Culture learning; Afterschool clubs, hobbies, and maker movement; Media and entertainment; Research and evaluation; Nonprofit management. Students are evaluated through four assignments including papers, reflections and projects. 

We seek applicants with a demonstrated commitment to the pursuit of education and learning, specifically in informal environments. Experience with K-12 populations and the demonstrated pursuit of social justice, equity, and inclusion are valued.

The Teaching, Learning, and Leadership and Learning Sciences and Technologies master's programs offer students and teachers an opportunity to develop their knowledge of learning theories, technologies, and applications. They also offer the opportunity to gain a broad understanding of education and leadership in formal and informal K-12 classroom settings, including teaching, curriculum, leadership, and social justice. Both programs require 10 graduate-level courses and a capstone project. The program includes core courses that provide foundational knowledge, research methods classes, and electives in which students can gain in-depth knowledge in their particular area of interest. 

 The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.

A master’s degree or doctorate in education or a related field is required. Experience teaching in k-12 schools and in higher education are valued.

In order to apply, please submit a detailed curriculum vitae, recent prior teaching evaluations (within the last 3 years) if applicable and/ or a recent syllabus for a related course, and a cover letter describing your educational and professional background and how your teaching contributes to excellence in education and practice and to the pursuit of social justice, equity, and inclusion. 

This position is part-time and non-tenure-track and involves in-person teaching at the University. This is a non-hybrid position. Pay is competitive. Applications will be reviewed as soon as they are received and position will close once filled. Due to the volume of applications, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No letters of recommendation are required at this time.

The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.  Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class. Questions or concerns about this should be directed to the Executive Director of the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs, University of Pennsylvania, 421 Franklin Building, 3451 Walnut Street,  Philadelphia, PA 19104-6205; or (215) 898-6993 (Voice) or (215) 898-7803 (TDD).

COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

COVID-19 vaccination is a requirement for all employees at the University of Pennsylvania. New hires are expected to be fully vaccinated before beginning work at the University. Visit the Penn COVID-19 Response website for the latest information about Penn’s vaccine requirements.