Part-Time Lab Assistant

at  Penn State University

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Student Disability Resources (SDR) is looking for a part-time Lab Assistant for a blind student taking a Chemistry la b during the Summer 2024 Semester. Primary d ut ies include:

Visual Description :

• Creating text-based descriptions of classroom materials that follow applicable accessibility guidelines . The content that requires descriptions is primarily visual or graphical in nature. This includes writing descriptions of anything that is written on the board or presented on overheads, handouts, PowerPoint slides, or any other visual aids.
• Using a raised line drawing board to sketch a visual image to provide tactile access to visual or graphical material as needed .

Reading:

• Reading classroom materials, or groupwork activities presented during class periods .
• Creating verbal descriptions of classroom materials or gro u pwork activities that are primarily visual or graphical in nature. This includes reading aloud and visually describing anything that is written on the board or presented on overheads, handouts, PowerPoint slides, or any other visual aids.
• Providing non-ambiguous verbal descriptions of video content or simulation software required for classroom learning. The student may request to pause the video and ask questions about the video images as it is communicate d .

Materials Organization

• Finding and organizing materials (e.g., text. PowerPoint slides, problem sets , graphics , etc., ) for synchronous use with the instructor and class.
• Assisting the student before or after class in meeting with the instructor to get clarification of material and information, as needed.

Other:

• Assist the blind student with other class-related activities as required .

Requirements:

• Semester Information: This course takes place during the Summer 2024 semester during session two. The course starts on June 26, 2024, and ends on August 7, 2024.
• Time commitment: Attend scheduled lab sessions in person, on the Penn State University Park Campus , from 10:30 to 12:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Able to schedule time outside of class to work on course assignments. Able to schedule time before class to discuss class activities. Able to work an estimated 5 to 1 0 hours per week.
• S trong knowledge of Chemistry is required .
• Previous experience working with individuals who are blind is preferred but not required .
• Previous experience with accessibility standards such as WCAG is preferred but not required .

Additional Notes

• Former Chemistry 109 students are encouraged to apply .
• Current and f ormer C hemistry TAs are encouraged to apply .
• All job-related training will be provided prior to the first class you attend .
• Th e individual hired for this role is not responsible for individual ly teaching course material.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

Please refer the Job description for details