by Marc Wensveen
MIIS Alumnus Matthew Robinson is a lecturer at the Institute of Culture and Language Studies in Bhutan. The institute is hiring more lecturers as it continues to grow. See vacancy announcement below:
Institute of Language and Culture Studies, Bhutan
Interested candidates: please prepare a cover letter and resume and contact Matt Robinson at MRobinsonILCS@gmail.com
General Information about the Vacancy
The Institute of Language and Culture Studies (ILCS), part of the Royal University of Bhutan, is looking for Lecturers for their English Department. Opportunities for these year-long contracts begin in July, 2012. ILCS is Bhutan’s foremost center for preserving and promoting the national language (Dzongkha) and Bhutanese culture. The institute is now situated in a new campus in the remote and scenic Trongsa district, a half-day drive from the capital.
Duties/Responsibilities
· Plan, teach and assess EAP classes (B.A. level) for the English department
· Provide students with opportunities (inside and outside of class) to practice academic writing, learn about APA citation and referencing norms, gain academic skills, and improve their confidence in using the English language in formal and academic settings.
· Coordinate extra-curricular activities on occasion
· Participate in staff/institute meetings, initiatives and functions
· Additional responsibilities commensurate with candidate’s level of experience and qualifications upon agreement with the ILCS Director
Required Qualifications
· M.A. in TESOL or closely-related field required (PhD in related field desired)
· Relevant Experience that demonstrates a record of success and professionalism
· Flexibility and willingness to adapt to unexpected situations and sudden changes in a professional manner
· Ability to work well with and perhaps mentor colleagues
· Interest in preservation of languages/cultures and Bhutanese culture
The Institute of Language and Culture Studies will provide hired lecturers:
· A local salary which should cover all living costs
· Basic facilities for teaching/learning purposes
· Assistance in obtaining all paperwork needed for work in Bhutan
· 2 months of vacation in a year as per institute norms
· Assistance in finding suitable and affordable accomodation
· Access to Bhutan’s national health care system in the case of any illness or accident
All other expenses will be the responsibility of the lecturer, and working conditions will be the same as those of regular faculty members of ILCS. Note that the new campus of ILCS is still under construction, and while it is improving every day, one can expect a degree of challenge in living & working conditions. It’s also noteworthy that the position gives lecturers unprecedented access to learning about Bhutanese culture/ languages, and, of course, to see stunning scenery and sites around the country.
