Adjunct Faculty, SAGE Arts and Creative Expression

Position Information

The SAGE (Seasoned Adults Growing Educationally) Program is seeking an engaging and creative Arts and Creative Expression Instructor to teach non-credit enrichment courses for older adult learners. Topics may include drawing, painting, mixed media, crafts, creative writing, stained glass art, ceramics, and other hands-on artistic activities. The instructor will plan and deliver accessible, interactive instruction that encourages creativity, self-expression, and participation in a welcoming and supportive environment. Instruction is designed for adults aged 60 and older and should accommodate varying skill levels, physical abilities, and learning styles.

Minimum Qualifications

• EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Associate’s degree in Fine Arts, Art Education, Studio Art, Photography, Textiles, or a related field required. Significant professional or teaching experience may substitute for formal education.
• Professional certification, licensure, registry, or other credentialing as required for the specific discipline or content area.
• Specialized experience in teaching or working with older adults (age 60+) including an understanding of age-related learning needs, cognitive and physical changes, and how these affect instructional strategies.

Essential Duties

• Plan, organize, and teach curriculum content in alignment with course goals and learning outcomes.
• Utilize appropriate technology and adult learning principles to deliver course content through various instructional modalities (e.g., face-to-face, hybrid, online, or remote).
• Complete mandatory institutional trainings and professional development activities as required.
• Prepare a course syllabus in accordance with department and division guidelines.
• Facilitate engaging and accessible instructional activities that support student learning.
• Monitor and document student participation and progress using tools or methods provided by the department; share feedback as needed.
• Provide an orientation during the first class session that includes (as applicable) an overview of the course syllabus, objectives, expectations, attendance policy, and required materials.
• Inform students of key course dates and any necessary schedule or content adjustments.
• Maintain accurate attendance and participation records; submit required documentation by established deadlines.
• Participate in departmental evaluation and course assessment activities as directed.
• Respond to student emails and phone calls within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays); maintain regular communication using the assigned PGCC email account.
• Attend all required departmental and institutional meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of subject matter and demonstrated expertise in the relevant discipline or content area.
• Knowledge of adult learning principles, particularly as they relate to older adult learners (age 60+), including cognitive, physical, and sensory considerations.
• Knowledge of safe handling of tools and materials, particularly for media such as stained glass, ceramics, or photography equipment.
• Understanding of age-related needs, including ergonomic adaptations, pacing, and accessibility for older adult learners.
• Knowledge of best practices for inclusive instruction, learner engagement, and culturally responsive teaching.
• Working knowledge of Canvas or comparable learning management systems, including course design, content organization, and assessment tools.
• Familiarity with instructional technologies, including videoconferencing platforms (e.g., Zoom), presentation tools, and internet-based educational resources.
• Knowledge of common barriers to learning faced by senior populations and strategies to mitigate them.
• Awareness of community-based lifelong learning models and the purpose of non-credit enrichment programming.

Job Requirements

• PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must have the use of sensory skills to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public using the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle, or feel objects and controls. Physical capability to effectively use and operate various items of office related equipment, such as, but not limited to, personal computer, calculator, copier, and fax machine. No significant climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions.
• OTHER REQUIREMENTS: As required by the 1986 Immigration Act, be prepared to present acceptable documentation showing your identity and that you are a U.S. citizen or an alien who is authorized to work. A background investigation will be conducted prior to the offer of employment. A signed authorization for the release of personal information will be required if selected for an interview.

Is Background Check Required?

Yes

Is the incumbent responsible for working with minor children or directly engaging with minor children on campus?

No