Adjunct Instructor - LEAD 524 - Learning and Engagement in Museums and Cultural Organizations (LEMCO) Program

Program: Learning and Engagement in Museums and Cultural Organizations (LEMCO) Program Position Vacancy: Adjunct Instructor Semester: Spring, 2026 (January 20, 2026 - May 5, 2026) Course title: Professional Development Course number: LEAD 524 Credits: 1 credit Day / Dates and Times: Thursday, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Eastern Time Modality: Hybrid Background: Learning and Engagement (LEMCO) Program The LEMCO program was launched in fall 2021. It combines elements of the prior Museum Education and Leadership in Museum Education Programs at Bank Street with new content and a hybrid format (online classes combined with occasional meetups in NYC regional cities) Accepted students are mostly working and apply coursework (including assignments) to their practice. The program is designed to advance professional trajectories in the cultural/non-profit sector with an emphasis on learning, inclusion/access and community engagement across the life span. Students (participants) represent different disciplines and interests: art, science, history, zoos, aquariums and gardens, as well as libraries, community centers and performing arts education work. The first year provides a solid background in education theory, human development, pedagogies, programming and collaboration. The second year focuses on education in the broader organizational context, including leadership, marketing/audience research, curriculum writing, grant writing and organizational dynamics. The program culminates in a Master of Science in Education and requires 36 credits. Course Description: LEAD 524 Professional Development This course focuses on the current trajectory of each participant in terms of their professional development. Participants will examine their individual strengths and challenges, practice speaking up and articulating what they value and stand for, for example championing social justice and advocating for the needs of diverse learners. The course will also touch on labor and current hiring practices (including bias and discrimination), basic management principles, updating professional goals, public profiles and fine-tuning skills around listening and personal reflection. This course will complement the second semester of advising/fieldwork together with the Organizational Dynamics course to strengthen each participant’s skills and competencies. Responsibilities:  Prepare and release a syllabus for the course with a detailed schedule of the modules week by week, list of related resources/readings/assignments, what is expected of students and how they will be assessed.  Upload syllabus, course materials and any online activities or submissions to Canvas (the online learning system at Bank Street) about a week/ten days before the first class (zoom).  Prepare short video or audio resources introducing topics before classes as needed.  Grade assignments and offer comments/feedback  Consult with Program Director before start of course and after for review purposes.  Be in touch with instructors teaching that semester to avoid scheduling bottlenecks that might impact student workload. Qualifications:*  Master’s degree required;  7-10 years’ experience in the public dimension of a cultural institution/non-profit organization with demonstrated experience planning public programs in museum/cultural sites and community engagement, in several formats for diverse sets of users.  Experience teaching or training in college/university, using a learner centered pedagogy centered around discussions, activities, guest speakers and short presentations online is preferred.  Being able to draw on a number of examples from across the sector in different disciplines is also beneficial. *Since this course is taught mainly online, candidates from out of state can apply, however it is advantageous if instructors are in the same or nearby time zones. Note: this course could be taught by one person, or team taught with another instructor, especially if having two adds more perspectives and experiences to the teaching of the course. Compensation: $2,117