FAO is recruiting for a Virtual Learning Specialist in Various Locations: Apply Now

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Application Deadline: 15 July 2024

FAO is recruiting for a Virtual Learning Specialist in Various Locations: Apply Now

The Virtual Learning Centers (VLCs) are virtual hubs initiated to develop capacities in all FAO regions through access to online training. VLCs deliver trainings based on regional needs and tailored to the local context, while working in a coordinated manner that allows sharing of good practices and quality standards.

In addition to meeting the diverse training needs of the FAO divisions, VLCs also are a component of the project “Strengthening One Health and Biosecurity for National and Producer Resilience – Preventing National and Global Threats” (hereinafter One Health & Biosecurity project), which has as one of its key outcomes the strengthening of One Health competencies of the animal health workforce through training provided by the VLCs.

The VLCs develop and deliver a wide range of virtual learning courses, often taking a blended learning approach combining face-to-face, synchronous and asynchronous online learning elements. Online courses are hosted on a dedicated Moodle based virtual learning environment and a variety of technologies are used to create course elements, including the Articulate 360 suite.

The purpose of this call is to attract talent to populate rosters for VLC Virtual Learning Specialists. These specialists should have prior experience in instructional design and/or in the technical support for virtual learning environments, in particular for Moodle.

It is expected that these virtual learning specialists will work in support of the core VLC programme and with the FAO decentralized offices within the VLC initiatives.

Reporting Lines

The Specialists, under the overall policy and technical supervision of the VLC REU manager and coordinator, will report directly to the Technical Advisor on Animal Health managing the VLC REU, and in coordination with the VLC HQ team supporting the fulfilment of the VLC objectives, and work in close consultation and coordination with the VLC experts, education and virtual learning specialists, subject matter experts and FAO Officers in Headquarters and Regional Office in Europe and Central Asia.

Technical Focus

Development and delivery of innovative online training courses and resources in support of the FAO Virtual Learning Centres.

Tasks and responsibilities

The Сonsultant/PSA will provide support to the implementation of the VLC activities at global, regional, sub-regional and country level.

Following are the generic functions for which candidates are sought. Specific tasks and responsibilities will be defined in Terms of Reference prepared for different assignments, according to:
i) the profile orientation required and
ii) the selected candidates’ experience, qualifications and expertise.

• Work alongside subject matter experts to develop online courses and resources according to best practices in adult distance education;
• Develop interactive and engaging virtual learning content using authoring tools including the Articulate 360 suite;
• review and edit written content to ensure learning materials are clearly and engaging written, in line with FAO language style guidelines;
• Provide training and mentorship on the development of virtual training and instructional design best practices to colleagues, subject matter experts and operational specialists;
• Project manage the development of online courses and resources, meeting deadlines and re-prioritizing tasks as needed to complete the timely delivery of projects;
• Support the improvement of existing online training tools, particularly developing innovative solutions to support virtual training delivery in low resource settings, including mobile technologies;
• Review the content and usability of the Moodle platform, suggesting improvements to enhance these aspects;
• Support in the creation of new Moodle functionality and course page content;
• Gather relevant data from Moodle for the monitoring of users and overall project reporting;
• Provide training and support in the use of Moodle to other VLC team members;
• Troubleshoot daily Moodle support request coming from both students and trainers;
• Perform other duties, if required.

Minimum Requirements

Depending on the Profile and orientation:

For Consultants:
• University degree in Education, Instructional Design and Technology, Graphic Design, Information Technology, Social Science or any other relevant to the duties listed or otherwise related to FAO’s Programme of Work;
• At least two years of relevant work experience in education, instructional design, learning technology, management of learning management system(s) or project management for technical training programs;
• Working knowledge (Level C) of English and limited knowledge (Level B) of one of FAO’s Official languages: French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Russian.

For PSAs:
• University degree, technical specialization or equivalent in Education, Instructional Design and Technology, Graphic Design, Information Technology, Social Science or any other relevant to the duties listed or otherwise related to FAO’s Programme of Work;
• At least one year of relevant work experience in education, instructional design, learning technology, management of learning management system(s) or project management for technical training programs;
• Working knowledge (Level C) of English.

Selection Criteria

• Evidence of the ability to create engaging and interactive virtual learning courses;
• Demonstrated proficiency with virtual learning authoring tool Articulate 360 suite;
• Demonstrated proficiency of management of virtual learning environments, including Moodle;
• Prior experience of development of virtual learning for international and/or adult audiences;
• Prior experience of project management;
• Communication skills (verbal & written) in English;
• Knowledge of Russian is a strong asset;
• Ability to work accurately under pressure paying attention to details and design best practices;
• Independent and capacity to prioritize requested actions in order to meet all the deadlines;
• Experience with audio and video editing software.