University of South Africa (UNISA) is hiring E-Tutors

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the leading institutions in the country dedicated to open and distance education. UNISA is now inviting applications for the position of Online Teaching Assistant on an independent contract basis within the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology, specifically in the School of Computing. This opportunity provides an excellent chance for highly qualified individuals to contribute to the growth and success of students pursuing degrees in computer science and related fields.

About the Position

UNISA offers a variety of academic and career-focused programs through open distance e-learning (ODeL), and as part of their comprehensive educational approach, they are looking to hire E-Tutors who will assist students in the online learning environment. As an Independent Contractor, you will play a critical role in providing academic and technical support to students, facilitating online tutorials, and creating an engaging and supportive online learning experience. This is an exciting opportunity for experts in computer science who are passionate about education and e-learning.

General Requirements

To apply for this position, candidates must meet the following basic requirements:

• Experience teaching in an Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) environment.
• Qualifications as specified by the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology (see UNISA website for detailed qualification requirements).
• A Master’s degree, preferably a PhD, in Computer Science.
• Availability of Internet access at your own cost.
• Ownership of necessary software for teaching purposes (e.g., Internet browsers, word processing software).
• Note: Current Unisa Fixed Term or Permanent staff members are not eligible to apply.

Duties and Responsibilities

As an E-Tutor, your main duties will include:

• Providing students with academic and technical support through online channels.
• Facilitating the delivery of online tutorials.
• Managing students’ online learning experiences, including monitoring progress and engagement.
• Encouraging online peer interactions and collaboration.
• Responding to student queries within 48 hours.

Skills Required

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills:

• Advanced computer and internet skills, with no training provided on software usage or internet navigation.
• Excellent communication skills, particularly in written English, as all communication with students will be via text-based platforms such as Moodle and discussion forums.
• A passion for student-centered learning and a commitment to meeting deadlines.
• Patience, sensitivity, and the ability to work with a diverse student population.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Contractual Details

As an Independent Contractor, you should be aware of the following:

• You will not be considered an employee of UNISA.
• You will not be entitled to any employee benefits such as medical aid, leave, office space, or equipment.
• You will need to provide your own infrastructure, including a computer, internet connection, and any other necessary office equipment.
• The work is flexible, and you will be expected to complete online teaching tasks totaling five days a week, with a minimum of one hour per day, including time for marking assignments.

Specific Department and Modules Advertised

The following positions are available within the Department of Computer Science:

• COS1501: Theoretical Computer Science 1
• COS1511: Introduction to Programming 1
• COS1521: Computer Systems: Fundamental Concepts
• COS2614: Programming Contemporary Concepts
• COS2626: Computer Networks I
• COS2661: Formal Logic 2
• EUC1501: End-User Computing (Theory)

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

To be considered for the position, candidates should meet the following preferred criteria:

• A PhD (NQF 10) in a relevant field, with qualifications aligned to the UNISA College of Science, Engineering, and Technology.
• Certification in advanced computer literacy.
• At least three years of teaching experience, especially in an ODeL environment.
• Familiarity with the myUnisa platform is advantageous, especially for former Unisa students.

Compensation

The gross remuneration for this position is R11,202.80.

Application Process

Interested applicants are required to submit the following documents:

1. A completed application form (available on the last page of the advertisement).
2. Scanned certified copies of your qualifications, ID, academic transcript, and work permit (issued within the last three months).
3. A comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV).
4. All required documents must be submitted as a single attachment to the email address provided below.

Applications should be emailed to: CSETETUTOR@unisa.ac.za
Closing Date: 26 March 2025 (before 16:00, closing business hours).

Additional Information

• Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo a virtual interview and complete compulsory online training.
• Appointments will only be finalized after successful completion of training.
• UNISA reserves the right to authenticate qualifications and reject late, incomplete, or incorrect applications.
• All appointments will adhere to UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan and relevant legislation.

For any inquiries, please contact Mr. Emanuel Mashimbye at:

• Tel: 011 471 3678 or 078 050 1050
• Email: CSETETUTOR@unisa.ac.za