Medical Education Learning Specialist

Case Western Reserve University, United States

Updated: 5 days ago
Location: Campus, ILLINOIS
Job Type: FullTime

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The objective of this position is to provide a relationship-based model of learning support for medical students at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, fostering their development as lifelong learners and professionals. By offering advanced learning and study strategies, expert knowledge of learning theory and practice, high-stakes exam preparation, student advocacy, and holistic coaching support, individuals in this role contribute to students' academic success and overall growth. Additionally, this position designs and facilitates workshops that focus on enhancing learning and study skills, easing the transition to medical school, navigating challenging learning environments, and other activities aimed at supporting students' development as medical learners. By aligning with the School of Medicine's mission of excellence in medical education and promoting students' learning and professional success, this position plays a vital role in advancing the institution's goals.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Provide direct mentoring, coaching and education on a variety of issues related to student academic success including, but not limited to, development of learning and study skills, critical thinking, self and time management, test-taking strategies, integration of learning resources, strategies for Step 1 readiness (National Medical Exam Preparation), self-reflection, and maintaining an appropriate balance between life/school, to promote positive academic results. Facilitate a safe place for students and provides feedback and support to students based on educational theory, student-centered coaching, understanding of student needs, and current practices in learning/ academic support. Partner with students to review personalized learning plans (PLPs) for each curricular block and to develop an individualized academic plan for continual progression in programs. Monitor the progress of students through mid-block and end-of-block PLPs including individualized meetings with each student. Meets with students to provide academic coaching and learning support to assist students in the ongoing development of their learning system and academic plan for continued success. (40%)
  • Maintain student records in compliance with university policies and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Keeps accurate documentation of consultations and communications within the designated data management system. Develop and deliver workshops to enhance effective learning techniques, based on learning theory and evidence-based strategies. Assist in the design and delivery of faculty and staff trainings, workshops, and consultations. Design and implement learning tools and resources to effectively communicate USMLE preparatory skills and requirements. Support in the delivery of extensive USMLE programming to increase student performance on USMLE Board exams. Manage a cohort of students with a skilled sensitivity to students who may be at-risk academically or under-resourced for a rigorous medical school program. In addition, serve as a resource and support for the Office of Medical Education at large. Promote and facilitate help-seeking behaviors and ongoing use of university resources. Support and attend student functions as appropriate (i.e., peer-led tutoring sessions, orientation, graduation, match, etc.). (30%)
  • Assist in interviewing, selection, hiring, training, supervising, and coaching of peer tutors. Contribute to the development, maintenance, and implementation of department policies and procedures aligned with the School of Medicine goals and mission. Represent medical education and serve on various work groups and university committees. Act as a liaison with the community, students, faculty, and staff in facilitating university programs. Contribute as a strong team player within team and at all staff meetings advocating for best practices for student success. Partner collaboratively with members of the Student Affairs teams and Office of Assessment as well as other faculty, course directors, and leaders across departments to identify students in need. Collaborate with campus partners to design and facilitate workshops, trainings, and resources for faculty and staff. The position supports the oversight of peer learning programs and services. (20%)
  • Contribute to the strategic planning process by analyzing data, identifying trends, and developing predictive models to identify students who may be at risk academically or under-resourced. Collaborate with the Learning Specialist to plan and strategize for the upcoming academic year, aligning learning resources and programs with the School of Medicine's strategic objectives. Serve as a resource and support for the Office of Medical Education in strategic initiatives, leveraging expertise in learning theory and practice to inform decision-making and improve student success. Collaborate with campus partners to design and facilitate workshops, training, and resources for faculty and staff, promoting a strategic approach to teaching and learning. Represent medical education and contribute as a strong team leader in various staff meetings, advocating for best practices for student success and participating in strategic discussions to enhance the overall learning environment. Resolve problems and issues affecting students, leveraging strategic thinking and decision-making skills to recommend measures that improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Office of Medical Education. (10%)

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    NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    Assist students in maximizing the usage of institutional resources. (<1%)

    Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

     

    CONTACTS

    Department: Continuous contact with faculty, administrators, directors, and staff within the School of Medicine Office of Medical Education to complete all major job functions, including communicating about student learning needs, working together to provide student workshops and learning opportunities, and strategic planning.

    University: Regular contact with faculty, administrators, directors and staff within other departments and schools of Case Western Reserve University to effectively execute all job-related activities, including referring students for needed services and serving on university committees.

    External: Maintain occasional contact with faculty, administrators, directors, and staff within the affiliated hospitals, including University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, MetroHealth Medical Center, the Cleveland Clinic, and the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center. Collaborate with external stakeholders to align MD student learning objectives with the clinical experiences provided by the affiliated hospitals, ensuring that the curriculum meets the required standards and competencies. Work closely with external hospital representatives to assess the performance and progress of MD students during their clinical rotations, providing valuable feedback and guidance to support their learning and professional development. Coordinate with external healthcare professionals to develop and implement assessment tools and methods that effectively evaluate MD students' clinical skills, knowledge, and competencies. Collaborate with external partners to explore innovative approaches to medical education and identify opportunities for enhancing MD student learning experiences within the clinical settings of the affiliated hospitals.

    Students: Continuous contact with all University Program and Medical Scientist Training Program students at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine including one-on-one meetings, small group meetings, and large group meetings

     

    SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

    May supervise peer tutors.

     

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Experience:  Minimum of 3 years of experience in educational theory and higher education with a focus on cognitive, learning skills and adult education.

    Education: Bachelor's degree required, Master’s degree preferred; possession of a teaching certificate and/or at least one year of experience providing one-on-one academic support. 

     

    REQUIRED SKILLS

  • Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and according to FERPA guidelines.
  • Ability to interact with and create a safe space for individuals of various identities, including diverse social, cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds.
  • Strong listening, analytical, and problem-solving skills in work with academic staff and students.
  • Ability to interact collaboratively and effectively with other staff, students, academic advisors, faculty and the university community.  
  • Ability to identify and make timely referrals to university partners as appropriate.
  • Ability to meet consistent attendance.
  • Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face.
  • Excellent communication skills, especially in written and oral communication, ability to listen for understanding and responding appropriately.
  • Strong understanding of effective learning strategies and experience applying this knowledge in an educational setting.
  • Experience working with diverse populations.
  • Professional tutoring or teaching experience is a plus. Certification and experience in special education are also a plus.

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    WORKING CONDITIONS

    Typical office environment. May require occasional evening and weekend hours.

    This position is eligible for hybrid work arrangement up to two remote days per week at the discretion of the department. New employees may begin a hybrid schedule upon approval from the supervisor, successful completion of an orientation period and signing the remote work checklist certification form.

    In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity.  Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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    Case Western Reserve University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.  Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity at 216-368-3066 to request a reasonable accommodation.  Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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