The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a prestigious institution that offers a wide range of academic programs to students across South Africa.
As a leading distance learning institution, UNISA relies on a team of dedicated and qualified educators to facilitate learning and academic excellence.
If you are passionate about teaching and want to join the UNISA community, we will provide you with detailed information on the requirements for teaching at UNISA.
Academic Qualifications and Expertise
To be considered for a teaching position at UNISA, you must possess a relevant academic qualification in the field you wish to teach.
Typically, a master’s degree or a doctoral degree in the relevant field is required.
For instance, if you want to teach in the Department of Education, you must have a master’s degree or a doctoral degree in Education or a related field.
Additionally, you must demonstrate expertise in your area of specialization, which can be evidenced through research publications, conference presentations, or industry experience.
UNISA values academic excellence, and therefore, you must have a strong academic record.
Your academic qualifications must be recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and must be aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
If your qualifications are obtained from outside South Africa, you must provide proof of accreditation by the relevant authorities in your country.
Teaching Experience and Pedagogy
UNISA values teaching experience and pedagogy, particularly in the context of distance learning.
You must demonstrate a strong understanding of teaching and learning principles, as well as the ability to design and deliver engaging and effective online courses.
A teaching qualification, such as a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education or a similar qualification, is highly desirable.
Your teaching experience must be relevant to the position you are applying for, and you must be able to demonstrate your ability to teach and assess students at a distance.
UNISA uses a variety of teaching and learning strategies, including online tutorials, discussion forums, and self-assessment exercises.
You must be familiar with these strategies and be able to adapt them to your teaching practice.
Research and Publication Record
As a research-intensive institution, UNISA places a strong emphasis on research and publication.
You must demonstrate a track record of research and publication in reputable academic journals and conferences.
This demonstrates your ability to contribute to the academic community and advance knowledge in your field.
Your research and publication record must be relevant to the position you are applying for, and you must be able to demonstrate your ability to conduct research and publish scholarly articles.
UNISA values interdisciplinary research, and therefore, you must be able to demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from other disciplines.
Familiarity with Distance Learning and Online Platforms
UNISA is a distance learning institution, and as such, you must be familiar with distance learning principles and online platforms.
You must demonstrate an understanding of how to design and deliver online courses, as well as how to engage with students in an online environment.
Experience with learning management systems, such as Moodle or Blackboard, is highly desirable.
You must be able to demonstrate your ability to use technology to support teaching and learning, including online tutorials, discussion forums, and self-assessment exercises.
UNISA uses a variety of online platforms, including myUNISA, which is the institution’s online learning platform. You must be familiar with myUNISA and be able to use it to support your teaching practice.
Language Proficiency
As a multilingual institution, UNISA values language proficiency. You must be proficient in one of the official languages of South Africa, which includes Afrikaans, English, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho, Setswana, siSwati, Tshivenda, and Xitsonga.
If you are not proficient in one of the official languages, you may be required to undergo language training.
Compliance with UNISA’s Employment Equity Policy
UNISA is committed to employment equity and diversity. As such, you must comply with UNISA’s Employment Equity Policy, which aims to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
This involves demonstrating a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, as well as a willingness to undergo training and development programs to promote these values.
You must be able to demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
UNISA values diversity and inclusion, and therefore, you must be able to demonstrate your commitment to these values.