The Department of Design Studies is new in the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, having been convened in 2018. It aims to bring together diverse theoretical approaches to studying art and design, its objects, processes, and their social implications. Design Studies is currently being taught to the undergraduate students of four departments in the faculty, and thus calls for an interdisciplinary approach, which seeks to decolonise knowledge in the South African university context. The department is focused on critical approaches to art, film and design and seeks to instil these skills in students in order to prepare them for postgraduate study in the faculty and beyond. This is primarily a teaching position although research is required, and the successful candidate must demonstrate a passion for teaching and the scholarship of teaching and learning. An ideal candidate would be eager to work with our team and demonstrate a positive demeanour and outlook on the work required.

Responsibilities:  

• Lecturing to large interdisciplinary classes at undergraduate level, in Design Studies. Some post-graduate level teaching may be required.
• Development of course material for Design Studies modules required in the department, with a focus on decolonisation and the fourth industrial revolution.
• Coordination of contract staff and tutors, as well as assessment, moderation and managing student risk profile.
• Fostering excellence in teaching and productive research and playing a leading role in teaching innovation.

• Active involvement in core activities of the department such as academic administration, research, strategic goals and events in the faculty.
• Demonstrating initiative in everyday responsibilities, as well as enthusiasm to navigate university systems and administration, funding applications and other opportunities.

• Must have completed a Master's degree in a relevant discipline (Art History, Design Theory/Studies, Communication, Film and Media Studies, or a Design discipline offered in the faculty), with a strong emphasis on theory.
• Preferably a completed PhD.
• Competent to lecture Design Studies to undergraduate and postgraduate students.
• Strong commitment to both good teaching and research.
• Proven record of engagement with the scholarship of teaching, e.g. an abridged teaching evaluation or portfolio.
• Sound communication skills in English, both verbally and written.
• Experience in Post graduate supervision.
• A good research track record of accredited publications.

Competencies and Behavioural Attributes:

• Excellent interpersonal skills and enjoy working as a team with colleagues.
• Good planning and organizational skills; this is essential for the position, which requires liaising across departments and monitoring the progress of large student groups.
• Reliable and able to meet deadlines required for marking, teaching and administration.
• Enthusiasm and passion for teaching interdisciplinary theory.
• Experience in the integration of ICT in teaching and learning as well as electronic assessment techniques e.g. Blackboard.
• Positive outlook on career and life.
• Responsible and integrous, and able to take initiative required to coordinate contract staff and tutors.
• Enthusiasm for working in a developing department, and willing to commit time to assist in growing the department's potential.

Recommendations:

• Teaching experience, preferably at a Higher Education Institution.
• A track record of post-graduate research supervision and publication in the relevant field.
• Proven record of engagement with the scholarship of teaching, e.g. teaching evaluation or relevant portfolio.
• Innovative teaching techniques incorporating technology.
• Ability to develop new undergraduate and postgraduate modules.
• Able to teach large groups (± 200)