Introduction to Information Technology Course Author / Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Job Title: Date: Position:

Introduction to Information Technology 10/12/26 Contract - Temporary

Course Author/Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Reports to: Department: Travel:

Vice President of Academic Affairs Academics No

Status: Compensation: Remote:

Exempt - Professional Stipend Yes

Our Mission

The mission of Portage Learning is to transform lives and communities by providing learning opportunities for all who aspire to thrive. We do this not only through superior online instruction but with a deep commitment to expanding access to education. We believe service is the thread that binds our community and our team together. To that end, we choose to …

• Believe the best in our employees
• Invest in our people
• Collaborate with humility, respect, and appreciation
• Cultivate curiosity and encourage creativity

A Place Where Creativity and Curiosity Matter

Portage Learning is developing a new 100-level, fully online, asynchronous Introduction to Information Technology course for undergraduate students, introductory IT and Computer Science majors, and general education students seeking fundamental technology literacy. We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert to author comprehensive module content, create aligned assessments, and collaborate with our Instructional Design team to build an engaging, standards-aligned course.

The SME will develop 8 modules that cover an Introduction to IT. The course will provide students with a broad introduction to information technology and the technologies that support modern computing and organizations. Major areas of study will include computer hardware and software, networking and Internet infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity and data privacy, databases, programming and computational thinking, and enterprise information systems. Students will also explore emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, along with ethical considerations and career pathways within the IT field. The course will combine foundational concepts with introductory hands-on experiences in areas such as networking, databases, cybersecurity, and Python scripting.

The SME may also have the opportunity to be contracted for teaching the course through on camera delivery.

What You’ll Invest In:

The Intro to IT Course Author will:

Course Writing & Content Development

• Curate and/or write full lesson content for 8 asynchronous modules aligned to course learning objectives.
• Ensure each module includes clear explanations, examples, and learner-appropriate practice opportunities.
• Integrate or adapt open educational resources (OERs) where appropriate, following Portage guidelines.
• Curate or create hands-on experiences in areas such as networking, databases, cybersecurity, etc.

Assessments & Academic Integrity

Create for each module:

• 1 problem set (20 – 25 questions)
• 1 module exam
• 1 lab or simulation experience for student practice
• Develop question banks with 6 alternate versions per question
• Assessments relevant to hands-on experiences
• Align all assessments to CLOs and provide rationale/notes for Academic Data review.

Slides & Multimedia Collaboration

• Draft lecture slides for each module following Portage production standards.
• Identify 2–3 “high-value” concepts per module for H5P/interactive reinforcement.
• Collaborate with Instructional Design, Production, Accessibility, and Editorial teams through iterative review cycles.

Deliverables

• Final written module scripts/content (per Portage template)
• Lecture slide decks per module
• Problem sets, exams, and exam banks
• Notes for interactive/H5P opportunities
• Revisions based on internal review feedback

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function(s).

We Believe the Best:

Portage Learning is seeking a candidate who exemplifies our mission, vision, philosophy, and goals.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field required.
• Demonstrated experience teaching IT or Computer Science at the introductory/novice level (college or adult learners strongly preferred).
• Strong academic writing skills in English; ability to write engaging, student-friendly asynchronous lessons.
• Experience creating assessments aligned to learning outcomes.
• Comfort working with OER and/or adapting existing texts responsibly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Online course authoring experience (asynchronous or continuous-enrollment formats).
• Experience with multimedia teaching (recorded lectures, short instructional videos).
• Comfort collaborating in Google Workspace or similar tools.

Our inclusive culture drives our mission to transform lives and communities by providing learning opportunities for all who aspire to thrive. For those with a disability, we offer accommodation during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview and onboarding.

Collaborating with a Team that Values Humility, Respect, and Appreciation

This is a part-time/contract position. Days and hours of work are based on needs associated with the project. SMEs are expected to meet all deadlines as outlined in the contract.

Portage Learning is an equal-opportunity employer, extending opportunities to all individuals without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, ancestry, place of birth, disability, handicap, age, genetic information, use of a guide or support animal, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local laws. Our policy reflects and accompanies the institution’s commitment to the principles of fair employment and the elimination of all discriminatory, harassing, and retaliatory practices.

Travel:

The job may require occasional travel – less than 10%. Must be able to travel to the office located in Chippewa Township, PA and/or other suitable venues.

Other Duties Disclaimer:

This is not an all-inclusive document. Additional duties, expectations, or demands may be added or changed to this document on an as-needed basis in order to meet organizational goals.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.