Co-facilitate University Speaking

Job Description
The national university has a rich history dating back to its foundation in 1918. Today, the university offers a broad range of programs, including foreign philology, economics, history, psychology, social work, and physical education.

The request for the Virtual Service Pilot Participant (VSPP) stems from the university's ongoing efforts to improve the quality of its educational programs. Developing English communication skills through English conversation practice has been one of the key initiatives in improving language proficiency at the university. The focus on conversational skills is essential to equip students with the practical language abilities needed for both academic and professional success of future teachers and translators. The university's Department of Foreign Philology has been at the forefront of this initiative, integrating conversation-based learning into its curriculum to enhance students' fluency and confidence in using English. Collaborating with VSPPs will support the department's goals.

The VSPP will collaborate with a group of 15-20 university students to strengthen the students' proficiency in English, boost their confidence in using the language, enhance their communication abilities, and cultivate intercultural awareness. Through collaboration with the VSPP, students will engage in an immersive English-speaking environment, offering them valuable opportunities to interact with a native speaker.

The organization has previously collaborated with Peace Corps. They understand that the role of a VSPP is very different than a two-year Volunteer.

Desired Qualifications
Education: Master's degree in education or a related field and/or TEFL, TESOL, Cambridge, or similar certificate

Experience: Virtual engagement and communication

Required Skills
Education: Bachelor's degree in any field

Experience: 1 year of experience in TEFL/English teaching to university students (or adults)

Intercultural skills and motivation: Flexible, strong cross-cultural agility, high tolerance for ambiguity, able to work independently, resourceful, creative, and genuinely motivated and capable to serve virtually

Host Country Partner's Mission and Goals
Kamianets-Podilskyi Ivan Ohiienko National University's (KPNU) mission is to provide high-quality education and foster intellectual growth among its students, preparing them to contribute effectively to society. The university aims to develop professionals with strong ethical values and critical thinking skills, capable of engaging in the global academic and professional community. The university prioritizes international cooperation, academic excellence, and research innovation, with opportunities for students to participate in exchange programs and to engage in intercultural activities that enhance their global competence. It focuses on expanding its partnerships and emphasizes the importance of intercultural competence and collaboration in its curriculum and activities. The university is dedicated to equipping students with advanced English language skills and cultural knowledge, preparing them for careers in education, translation, international relations, etc.

Virtual Service Engagement and Tasks
The VSPP will engage in the following tasks, in collaboration with their Host Country Partners:

• Prepare for an initial meeting with partner teachers to assess their English club priorities and students' interests

• Plan and design conversation club sessions relevant to the needs and interests of club participants

• Co-facilitate a weekly 1-hour online English language conversation club session where members engage in discussions and debates in English and members have opportunities to lead discussions and practice their speaking skills (the specific day and time for the club sessions will be determined during orientation)

VSPPs are expected to engage in the tasks listed above for an estimated 5–15 hours per week. This engagement is estimated to be 8 hours per week.

Online collaboration will generally occur between 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. Ukraine time. Specific times will be determined during orientation.

The Host Country Counterpart will have access to Zoom, WhatsApp, and email for regular communication and collaboration.

Per the Child Protection Code of Conduct, when engaging online with minors (0–18), two adults must be present.

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