Instructor - Area Studies

About This Role

This position provides instruction for courses in the Area Studies division within the Department of State's (DOS) School of Professional and Area Studies (SPAS). This role involves designing, delivering, and evaluating engaging training courses that incorporate adult learning principles and align with DOS standards. The Instructor will collaborate with Course Chairs, technical staff, and guest speakers to prepare course materials, facilitate interactive sessions, and manage in-person and/or virtual classrooms.

Responsibilities

• Maintain regular communication with the Course Chairs/Coordinators for content guidance on course development and delivery and the Contractor for technical guidance.
• Review existing course guidance, design/lesson plan, syllabus, and schedule to incorporate adult learning principles.
• Update existing materials or create new materials based on research and expertise, ensuring they meet NFATC and U.S. Government Section 508 standards.
• Coordinate with SPAS division staff to send a welcome email to students with pre-reading/viewing materials and the final course schedule.
• Identify and invite approved guest subject matter experts, facilitating their discussions to ensure presenters remain on topic and allow for student questions.
• Lead sessions and present material for approximately half of the allotted course time, teaching and engaging students in various activities including lectures and discussions.
• Use formative assessments and real-time feedback to monitor student understanding and adjust instruction during the course.
• Track daily student attendance and manage the classroom to ensure a safe and effective learning environment.
• Ensure each student completes an end-of-course evaluation and return all reusable course materials, reporting any equipment damage.
• Meet or discuss with the CPM and Course Chairs/Coordinators to provide initial observations and recommendations concerning the course after delivery.

Requirements

• Master’s degree
• 5+ years of substantive expertise in area studies
• 5+ years of experience with instructional design, professional training, or academic teaching
• Ability to work independently and under deadline pressure
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel)
• Experience with online/remote learning platforms
• Understanding of the United States Government, U.S. Department of State, and U.S. foreign affairs
• Fluent English

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required; PhD preferred
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience and substantive expertise in their area of expertise, as evidenced by published works, international/non-governmental organization experience, or government employment. Minimum of 5 years of experience with instructional design, professional training, or academic teaching for experienced, adult learners.

Nice to Have

• PhD
• Experience designing and delivering online courses
• Time living overseas in the region of expertise
• Significant academic work focused on a specific region
• Fluency in a language of a specific region

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits