At the University of the Western Cape (UWC), the Centre for Innovative Education & Communication Technologies (CIECT) is responsible for driving emergent technologies and innovative collaborative projects, to support teaching and learning aligned to the broader digital transformation agenda; and the Institutional Operating Plan (IOP). The university has continued to see significant strides in relation to the improvement of teaching practices, and especially research regarding online teaching, learning and assessment practices and student access and success. 

CIECT has identified a growth area within relevant research based on operations and pedagogical practices. In order to deliver the Centre’s strategic initiatives, an opportunity exists for a suitably qualified and experienced candidate, Research Officer.

The Key Responsibilities of the incumbent include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct research with regards to the exploration of emerging technologies and global trends, determining impact upon the design of interactive learning environments.
• Keep abreast and research on emerging technologies and global trends, with regards to design of interactive learning environments in higher learning institutions.
• Contribute research with aspects of continuous online design evaluation processes in relation to access, navigation, utilization, reliability and functionality of eTools within in the LMS and other integrated learning platforms.
• Meet established research deadlines and communicate effectively with CIECT Director.

    Assist with eLearning national, international conferences, colloquia and seminars/webinars.
    Understand the security and POPIA landscape, especially in relation to UWCs Ethical clearance guidelines with regards to the design of research related to online learning and teaching environments.
    Be able to submit required documentation to the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee (HSSREC) ethics certification application form in application for ethical clearance to conduct research at UWC. 
    Demonstrate proficiency in quantitative data analysis and in qualitative data analysis.
    Possess excellent English communication skills, including the ability to write for publications, present research findings and results, and interact with the wider academic, stakeholder, and policy communities as evidenced by a publication track record in reputable journals or major publication houses.

Minimum education and experience required:

• A Master’s degree (NQF Level 9) with four (4) years relevant experience within research specifically in relation to the improvement of teaching practices, especially online teaching, learning and assessment practices (blended and fully-online), for student access and success within higher education.

Skills and Experience

Strong knowledge or understanding in these key areas would be advantageous:

• Emerging Technologies in Teaching and Learning practises within higher education institutions: learning styles and digital transformation strategies implemented by the University of the Western Cape (UWC) that facilitates student, tutor and lecturer support and success.
• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Research related to the LMS contribution in the enhancing of teaching and learning particularly in the integration of online teaching, learning and assessment practices of both blended and distance delivery modes; and research on the alignment of course outcomes with online assessment tools as well as the relevant eTools that support course design in the LMS that encourage lecturer and student online interaction. 
• Communication and Reporting: co-ordination and implementation of the research, including data collection, management, and analysis, as well as reporting of the research projects.
• Design, Facilitation and Publication:

o    Design, develop and execute research projects that includes: data collection, surveys, literature reviews and executing different research methodologies.
o    Attention to detail and the ability to work within a timeline for designing the research proposal, collecting data, design and analyzing data qualitatively or quantitatively.
o    Ability to work independently as well as in a team.
o    Skilled in the preparation, facilitation and presentation of conference papers and publication of research papers.
o    Ability to remain current and up-to-date with research related to the changing landscape of eLearning by exploring research on emerging technologies within HEIs.
o    Share research ideas on emerging technologies and ideas to enhance learning, teaching and assessment through current research findings.
o    Proficient in preparing comprehensive reports.

Minimum competencies required:

    Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills 
    Ability to work across interdisciplinary teams
    Ability to identify current emerging research areas related to blended learning environments and facilitation thereof for student success and access
    Ability to explore and adapt to new research, best practice frameworks in the eLearning environment
    Understanding of the security and POPIA landscape, especially in relation to roles and permissions within research data, sharing information, and storage of content/material.
    Working experience in research methodologies, statistics and data analysis technology, preferably within blended and hybrid learning environments.
    Proven record of publishing in peer-reviewed reputable education journals.

Disclaimer: The above is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by a Research Officer within the Centre for Innovative Education and Communication Technologies. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of staff in this role. All staff may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.