Undergraduate Academic Assistant Opportunity

Undergraduate Academic Assistant for Place-Based Field Learning Accessibility and Inclusion Project

Position Title: Undergraduate Academic Assistant

Project Title: Enhancing Accessibility in Place-Based Field Learning through Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Project Overview:
This project seeks to create resources that make place-based field learning accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. We aim to identify best practices for inclusion in field-based courses (ISCI 361/461), with a particular focus on integrating Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. The project will involve digital media production and the use of immersive technology to make challenging and fragile field sites accessible.

Project Outcomes:

1. Develop a UDL framework specific to digital media production.
2. Survey student participants on inclusivity challenges during virtual field-based excursions, tested in February.
3. Evaluate survey feedback and develop a project plan for the creation of virtual tours of key sites in Hawaii to increase accessibility and inclusion.

Position Requirements:

• Status: Must be a current undergraduate student.
• Skills: Strong research skills, proficient in both written and oral communication.
• Interpersonal Abilities: Excellent interpersonal skills are essential for coordinating with the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Technology (CTLT) and the Centre for Accessibility (CfA).
• Recommended Qualifications:
  • Current or past participation in, or familiarity with, ISCI 361 field courses.
  • An interest in or understanding of UDL and accessibility in field-based courses is a plus.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct research on UDL principles and their application in media and virtual learning.
• Meet with UBC experts from CTLT and CfA to discuss and integrate best practices.
• Develop student surveys to assess accessibility requirements for in person and virtual learning
• Prepare reports and summaries on project findings.
• Develop recommendations and best practices for UDL and inclusion to support the project team.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a pioneering project on accessibility and field-based learning. If you are passionate about enhancing educational access through innovative solutions and digital media, we encourage you to apply.

Application Instructions:
Please submit a cover letter and resume detailing relevant experience and interest in the project to gabriel@science.ubc.ca

Application Deadline: Friday, November 22, 2024