Universal Design for Learning Specialist (PA) - Finger Lakes Community College

The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Specialist provides guidance and serves as a resource to faculty and staff regarding UDL frameworks in instructional design, curriculum development, classroom practice, accessibility, and inclusive pedagogy. This position collaborates with faculty and staff to integrate UDL strategies that improve accessibility and foster engagement in online and in-person learning environments. The UDL Specialist will assesses and evaluate the effectiveness of UDL implementation. This role will promote a culture of inclusivity by developing and delivering professional development workshops and training. The UDL Specialist ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations regarding accessibility in education (ADA, Section 504, etc.). This position has a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) by working with faculty to expand accessibility in remote learning environments by ensuring accessibility of instructional materials, engagement tools, and authentic assessment measures.

FLCC is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, and strives to provide an environment that embodies these principles. We strive to attract talented personnel from diverse backgrounds and traditions, particularly of race and ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, culture, religion, worldview and physical and mental abilities. As such, applicants from historically under-represented groups are highly encouraged to apply.

This is a full-time, grant-funded position.

Qualifications:

1. Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Instructional Design, Special Education, Educational Technology, or a related field required. Universal Design for Learning certification or equivalent experience in accessibility, instructional design, or related areas preferred. Master’s degree preferred.
2. Experience: Minimum of two (2) years experience in an educational setting, instructional design, curriculum design or accessibility services required. Demonstrated experience with UDL implementation in higher education or K-12 environments required. Experience in developing, delivering, and evaluating curriculum in varied modalities required.
3. Special Skills: Ability to collect, analyze and interpret data required. Working knowledge of federal accessibility laws (ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Section 508, etc.) and assistive technologies required. Effective communication and collaboration skills and ability to provide leadership and guidance in a dynamic and diverse educational setting required.

Essential Functions:

1. UDL Framework Implementation:
   1. Leads the integration of UDL principles into curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices, focusing on creating inclusive learning environments for all students.
   2. Develops resources to assist faculty in adopting UDL strategies through varied modalities.
   3. Collaborates with instructional designers to create accessible course materials, assessments, and multimedia content, ensuring the content meets UDL guidelines for diverse learners.
   4. Assesses and implements curriculum needs and goals.
   5. Implements learning design and principles and techniques.
   6. Collaborates with subject matter experts to create accessible and well-designed learning experiences.
   7. Applies innovative strategies to course design using UDL Principles.
   8. Researches, assesses, and shares emerging trends and best practices.
2. Faculty and Staff Support:
   1. Consults with faculty to improve course accessibility, design, and implementation of UDL principles and strategies.
   2. Facilitates professional development opportunities regarding UDL best practices, accessibility, inclusive teaching strategies, and highlighting the benefits of UDL for all students.
   3. UDL liaison to faculty, instructional designers, and disability services staff, to ensure effective collaboration and communication.
   4. Partners with instructional designers to review Online Course Quality Review Rubrics to ensure accessibility standards are followed in all modalities, including but not limited to asynchronous online, hybrid, and HyFlex courses.
3. Assessment and Evaluation:
   1. Assesses the effectiveness of UDL implementation and identifies areas for improvement through data collection, student feedback, and faculty input.
   2. Recommends continuous improvement in instructional practices related to UDL by enhancing inclusivity and student engagement.
4. Collaboration and Advocacy:
   1. Partners with academic leaders to ensure UDL practices are inclusive and compliant with institutional policies and long-term strategic goals.
   2. Advocates for the creation of an inclusive learning environment across all educational programs by challenging barriers and promoting equity.
5. Compliance and Accessibility:
   1. Ensures all course materials, assessments, and activities comply with institutional accessibility standards and relevant legal requirements, such as the ADA and Section 508.
   2. Supports the integration of assistive technology and other resources for students with disabilities, promoting equitable access to education.

Physical Requirements:
In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act, this job description contains only qualifications that are required, with or without reasonable accommodation.

1. Ability to use computer for extended periods of time.
2. Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
3. Frequently moves boxes weighing up to 20 pounds across office for various needs.

Benefits and Salary Range

1. Competitive starting salary in the range of $52,874 to $55,984 and is commensurate with qualifications
2. Flexible work schedule available upon completion of training; some on site work required at the Canandaigua campus
3. NYS retirement or Optional SUNY Retirement Program
4. SUNY Voluntary Savings Plan
5. Comprehensive Health and Dental Insurance through Excellus BCBS
6. FSA
7. 21 days of annual leave, 12 sick days, and 13.5 holidays annually
8. FLCC Tuition Waiver for employee and dependents
9. Tuition assistance – 4-year institutions

Application Instructions:

Applicants interested in applying MUST submit the following documents via online:

1. Resume/Cv
2. Cover letter

Applications will only be accepted online.

Finger Lakes Community College does not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, student or applicant for admission based on an individual’s race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identification, gender expression, sexual orientation, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, veteran status, domestic violence victim status, criminal conviction or any other category protected by law. The College adheres to all federal and state civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination in public institutions of higher education.