Position Description:

Research Assistant for Online Education

Department of Industry and Technology, Ball State University

I.         General description

            The Research Assistant for Online Education in the Department of Industry and Technology report to the Director of Online Education and is  responsible for support of research activities assigned by the director. Other duties may include the long-term and day-to-day management, support, and outreach of the Department's online education efforts.

II.      Specific responsibilities

1. Assist in research efforts

            Skills required:

·         Facility with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access

·         Excellent communication skills

·         Familiarity with research methodology and reporting

·         Library and database searching

·         Ability to contribute to the writing of reports

            Additional skills that could help:

·         Statistical analysis skills

·         Programming ability

 

2. Maintain the Website

            Skills required:

·         Webpage creation with FrontPage

·         Ability to proofread for grammar and syntax

·         Facility with the Vignette content suite

            Additional skills that could help:

·         Database management with MS Access

·         Graphic design and manipulation

·         Programming ability

 

3. Reply to requests for information

            Skills required:

·         Knowledge of the master’s programs from I & T

·         Ability to correspond professionally in verbal and written English

·         Facility with Email

·         Ability to respond to requests for information within 24 hours during weekdays

 

4. Assist in marketing the programs, as needed

            Skills required:

·         Graphic design and page layout to create advertisements

·         Ability to contact individuals by phone or writing

Additional skills that could help:

·         Ability to locate emerging marketing opportunities

 

5. Provide assistance to faculty, as directed

            Skills required:

·         Working knowledge of Blackboard interface

·         Web page creation with FrontPage

·         Facility in creating InQsit tests and surveys

·         Some awareness of best practices of online education

·         Ability to manipulate media (graphics, audio, video) for Web distribution

·         Ability to operate video and audio systems for streaming media

Additional skills that could help:

·         Database management with MS Access

·         Programming ability

 III.      Term and conditions of appointment

            The Research Assistant for Online Education will be appointed and serve at the discretion of the Director of Online Education, subject to approval by the Department Chair.

IV.        Evaluation

            The performance of the Research Assistant for Online Education will be evaluated at the end of each year by the Director.