Learning & Assistive Technology Strategist

About Toronto Metropolitan At the intersection of mind and action, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is on a transformative path to become Canada’s leading comprehensive innovation university. Integral to this path is the placement of equity, diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our institutional culture. Our current outlines each as core values and we work to embed them in all that we do.TMU welcomes those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion and will assist us in realizing the benefits of embedding these values into the work at every level and in every unit of the university. In addition, to correct the conditions of disadvantage in employment in Canada and to bring lived experiences to the work, we encourage applications from members of equity deserving groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples in Canada, First Nations Peoples in the United States, racialized people, Black people, persons with disabilities, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Preference will be given to candidates with lived experiences as people from equity deserving groups, as well as experience working with these communities with which the University works every day. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and we welcome newcomers and immigrants to Canada.In April 2022, the university announced its new name of Toronto Metropolitan University. Learn more about our .The team Part of , Academic Accommodation Support aims to reduce barriers and foster inclusive learning environments for students with disabilities to facilitate equal access to education. At , we envision a TMU campus and community where disability is embraced as a natural part of human diversity, deserving celebration.TMU students with disabilities connect with AAS services to learn about and implement individualized academic accommodation plans while also exploring learning strategies, assistive technology, and other resources that can support them in more fully participating in their studies.The Learning & Assistive Technology Strategist (LATS) is part of the Inclusive Learning team within AAS. The LATS collaborates with their AAS team members to implement creative student centred approaches that promote inclusive learning practices across the TMU community. The Opportunity We’re seeking an innovative, visionary thinker who is ready to help shape the direction of this role in our organization. Are you a creative problem-solver with a passion for developing initiatives and programming focused on promoting access and career-readiness for students with disabilities? Do you thrive in supporting student success within work-integrated learning opportunities, while developing career readiness skills? If so, the Learning & Assistive Technology Strategist (LATS) might be the right position for youGrounded in the understanding that students with disabilities may face distinct challenges at key points in their post-secondary journey, Academic Accommodation Support provides support throughout the full student experience - from the transition into university, through their academic studies, and into their transition out of university and into careers.This role will focus on the transition out portfolio of the student lifecycle and is responsible for supporting students with disabilities to integrate learning strategies (LS) and assistive technology (AT) into their learning environments through individual appointments and group programming..In collaboration with the Inclusive Learning team, the LATS guides service delivery and program planning by drawing from the lived experiences of students with disabilities, evidence-based resources from a variety of disciplines, and the social issues affecting students today.Key responsibilities:Program Development:Evaluates, using research methods, current programming, completes needs assessments, and identifies additional areas for program and/or resource development to advance equitable experiential learning opportunities for students with disabilities.Lead the design and implementation of a comprehensive needs assessment focused on identifying barriers and opportunities to increase access, participation, and inclusion for students with disabilities in both experiential learning and work-integrated learning environments across the university. Lead the design, implementation and evaluation of programming and resources identified in the completed needs assessment.Consult with stakeholders including students, faculty and partners across campus, on experiential learning needs and creates, implements and evaluates new development programming and recommends changes to current programming with an emphasis on learning, access and inclusion for students with disabilities in work-integrated opportunities.Produce reports and proposals as necessary.Build and maintain partnerships across the university to co-create career focused resources for students with disabilities that enhance access and participation .Research, design and deliver inclusive and accessible workshops and programs to students with disabilities focused on guiding students through key aspects of their learning experience.Student Appointments:Create a safe, empathetic environment for students to identify, explore, and work towards their experiential learning goals.Contributes to the development of tools, programming, and resources that help students build confidence, navigate their learning environments, and prepare for long-term success.Apply current knowledge of emerging approaches, technologies, and best practices in learning strategy and assistive technology to the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of student programming.Assess students’ assistive technology needs and eligibility for the Bursary for Students with Disabilities & the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment .Connect with students about disability-related impacts and review and interpret medical documentation and psychoeducational assessment reports.Promote and act as a resource to students, staff, and faculty regarding current and future uses of inclusive learning practices and assistive technology for students with disabilities in the educational settings, with a focus on experiential and work-integrated learning settings.Refer students to appropriate on-campus supports, as needed.QualificationsTo help us learn more about you, please provide a cover letter and resume describing how you meet the following required qualifications:Successful completion of a post-graduate Master’s degree program in education or related field required with an emphasis on planning and implementing learning strategy skills and assistive technology support with students with disabilities.A minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.Experience supporting student access and success in experiential and/or work-integrated learning environments.Strong understanding of inclusive and accessible communication practices.Knowledge of disability and its impacts on learning and academic participation.Experience with program planning and assessment is considered an asset.Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.Creative problem-solving skills, ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines, and work collaboratively.Knowledge of specialized adaptive technology and available funding resources (e.g., BSWD/CSG-DSE, ADP, etc.).Excellent understanding of the complex learning needs of a diverse student population, including relevant campus resources, processes, and policies.Demonstrated commitment to upholding the recommendations outlined in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)