Director of Research and Development

The Director of Research & Development (R&D) position is an essential component to the mission and vision of the Division of Online and Strategic Learning, by providing the leadership in vetting and testing new educational technologies and new pedagogical methods, as well as determining their value regarding their integration and implementation in face-to-face, blended, and online course environments. The Director leads a vibrant team of learning technologists, software developers, and a data analyst who contribute their expertise to the future of teaching and learning practices at Ball State. The Director will also provide guidance and input to ongoing technology discussions around teaching and learning needs both within the Division of Online and Strategic Learning and with other stakeholders at the university. It is imperative that Ball State remain at the forefront with new technologies and new modalities of teaching and learning. The Director will be charged with the continuing development and dissemination of user-friendly, compliant, and inclusive technology-driven solutions that lead towards better teaching and more learning for our students and faculty.

Oversee unit’s research and development (R&D) team. Leads efforts in research-based and data-driven advances in support of 21st century education, pedagogy, and good practice in teaching and learning. Directs efforts around research analysis, custom tools development, and technology innovation with strategists, developers, and analysts. Work within unit to make contributions, implement, and deliver programming and projects using key performance indicators (KPIs) in alignment with larger unit and university goals. Manage daily operations with a strong focus on positive practices in faculty development and team interaction.

Master’s Degree in a relevant field.

At least one year of experience in a role related to innovation in teaching and learning.

Knowledge of pedagogical trends and research; knowledge of current instructional technologies and their uses in higher education; proven supervisory skills; ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external partners in a friendly and professional way.

Doctoral degree in a relevant field.

Additional years of experience in a role related to innovation in teaching and learning.

Research Analysts
Strategic Learning Technology Consultants
Developers

Ball State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that is strongly and actively committed to diversity within its community. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other legally protected status.

EEO/AA Employer/Veterans/Disabled.

Ball State University is located in Muncie, Indiana, on an attractive campus 45 miles northeast of Indianapolis. Approximately 22,000 graduate and undergraduate students enroll in one of 10 academic colleges that offer 190 undergraduate programs. We offer more than 140 master’s, doctoral, certificate, and specialist degrees, with many of them ranking among the best in the nation. Ball State aspires to be the model of the most student-centered and community-engaged of the 21st century public research universities, transforming entrepreneurial learners into impactful leaders – committed to improving the quality of life for all.

Manage and inspire a high-functioning research and development (R&D) team.

Direct efforts on the research, creativity, good practice, impact of resources, approaches, and tools that support or enhance effective teaching and learning and contribute to faculty and student success.

Oversee the formulation and implementation of plans for the professional development of research and development (R&D) team members in areas relevant to the unit’s mission.

Direct efforts around the evaluation and assessment of programming, projects, and initiatives relevant to the unit’s and university’s mission.

Engage in forward thinking on the needs around programming, projects, or initiatives involving teaching and learning and research and development (R&D) in alignment with larger unit and university goals.

Collaborate as needed with relevant stakeholders within and outside the unit to provide support and services (including, but not limited to, instructional consultants, Executive Director for Learner Experience, community partners, vendors, and IT staff).

Manage and supervise the delivery of detailed reports and data on research and development (R&D) activities.

Deliver professional, high quality presentations, documents, and proposals.

Collaborate (as needed) with unit personnel on grant-writing activities.

Foster a positive and welcoming environment for faculty and faculty support personnel (scheduled, drop in, etc.).

Support and assist the Executive Director for Strategic Learning and the Assistant Provost for Learning Initiatives on division and university goals.

Perform other related duties as assigned.