Indigenous PLAR Developer at Thompson Rivers University – Kamloops, British Columbia

Continue the process of decolonizing and Indigenizing Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition by working collaboratively, holistically and relationally, with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Indigenous educators and researchers.

Increase student success and research innovation through inclusive excellence aiming to reduce achievement gaps and honour truth, reconciliation, and rights and the Calls to Action.

Work to further decolonize and Indigenize PLAR and position TRU locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally as an action-oriented leader in assessing recognizing Indigenous knowledge and experiential learning, in ways that are flexible, accessible, and researched informed.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, implement, and evaluate a wholistic belonging model to identify, reflect on, and articulate students prior learning in ways that can be assessed for credit at TRU while promoting the inclusion of stakeholders.
• Develop (videos, audio for text, Indigenous examples, student handbook (from course), etc.) with student collaboration.
• Detail the project evaluation and assessment process, including objectives, outcomes, and measures that will be used to track impact.
• Coordination and delivery of two Indigenous learners Competency-based PLAR pilot projects that will include engaging prior learning, identification, reflection, and documentation in their community.
• Explores the impact of agency, cultural safety, self-worth, reduction of achievement gaps, and PLAR persistence rates during and concluding the pilot projects and provide reports and strategic advice to senior leadership.
• Investment in developing safe and supportive relationships with community members (particularly our first and second houses).
• Develop and implement cultural inclusion training for PLAR employees.

REPORTS TO
Director, PLAR

QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Master's degree in an Indigenous Education focused discipline and:
  • Five years' experience working with Indigenous Communities in a Human Service and Educational field.
  • Three years of related experience in a post-secondary environment or similar educational environment, preferably with experience in student support, educational program planning, advising or counselling, event planning, public speaking and/or group facilitation.
  • Experience with prior learning assessment.
  • Lived knowledge & experience with Indigenous students and communities required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS

• Related knowledge in conducting and designing Indigenous focused research.
• Exceptional knowledge of community protocols especially pertaining to TRU’s First and Second House.
• Fostering effective communication and develop relationships within and among Indigenous students, communities, and leaders.
• Demonstrated knowledge of PLAR practices and research, in British Columbia and Canada
• Excellent at being authentic, respectful, and accountable to feedback from community.
• Knowledge of the Secwepemc Nation and Indigenous culture.
• Demonstrated knowledge of general Band education polices.
• Knowledge of Indigenous community organizations.
• Knowledge and competency in the Secwepemc language an asset.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Detail oriented, resourceful, innovative, flexible, accessible.
• Proven capacity to excel in an independent, highly confidential, ever-changing work environment.
• Exceptional listening, verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be a self-motivated individual with a passion for developing and facilitating PLAR capacity and culture at TRU and in the communities we serve.
• Ability to demonstrate in-depth knowledge and understand of historical Indigenous perspectives, protocols, and culture.
  

NOTE: To learn more about Thompson Rivers University or living in Kamloops or Williams Lake please visit our Careers website. External Candidates invited to interview will be required to bring a copy of their transcripts to the interview.