Instructor of Native American Studies - Cherokee Language (RT)

University of Oklahoma; United States; On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oklahoma is seeking a Renewable Term Cherokee Language Instructor to teach a comprehensive Cherokee language sequence from introductory to advanced levels. The position emphasizes high-quality instruction and revitalization of Cherokee language initiatives.

The successful candidate will be responsible for course preparation, instruction, and student advising. Required qualifications include high proficiency in Cherokee, teaching experience, and a Master's degree or equivalent expertise.

This is a nine-month appointment with a five-year renewable term.

Qualifications

• High proficiency in Cherokee necessary to teach a three-course sequence.
• Experienced teaching in a postsecondary or community setting.
• Demonstrates knowledge of effective language-teaching methods.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and instruct Cherokee language courses.
• Assess student learning and maintain course materials.
• Contribute to departmental service and curriculum development.

Skills

High proficiency in Cherokee (spoken and written)

Experience teaching Indigenous languages

Knowledge of communicative teaching methodologies

Ability to develop college-level curriculum

Effectiveness in teaching (evidence required)

Commitment to Indigenous language revitalization

Ability to contribute to departmental service

Education

Masters degree in a related field or equivalent experience

Tools

Learning management systems (e.g., Canvas)

Job description

Cherokee Language Instructor (Renewable Term, Unranked)

The Department of Native American Studies invites applications for a Renewable Term Cherokee Language Instructor to teach a three‑course Cherokee language sequence (introductory through intermediate/advanced levels). This unranked position emphasizes high‑quality undergraduate instruction, language revitalization, and service contributions that support Cherokee language learning and Indigenous language initiatives at an R1 institution.

The successful candidate will have an in-load of 4:4 or equivalent – currently the equivalency is 13 credit hours per semester, typically across the three‑course sequence, using communicative, culturally grounded, and learner‑centered pedagogical approaches. Courses may include in‑person instruction and may incorporate instructional technologies consistent with university and departmental practices. Expected start date of Fall 2026 or January 2027.

Primary responsibilities include course preparation and instruction, assessment of student learning, timely grading, maintenance of syllabi aligned with program outcomes, and regular student advising related to language courses. The instructor is also expected to contribute to departmental and program service, which may include curriculum development, coordination with language programs, participation in language‑related events, and collaboration with tribal and community partners as appropriate.

This position is a nine‑month appointment with a five‑year renewable term, subject to annual review in accordance with college and university policy. The role is primarily teaching‑focused, with service responsibilities aligned to the mission of Indigenous language education and stewardship.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated high proficiency in Cherokee (spoken and written), sufficient to teach a full three‑course college‑level language sequence.
• Experience teaching Cherokee or another Indigenous language at the postsecondary level or comparable community‑based, immersion, or revitalization program experience appropriate to college instruction.
• Demonstrated knowledge of communicative and culturally grounded language‑teaching methodologies, including learner‑centered and proficiency‑based instruction.
• Ability to develop and deliver college‑level curricula, including syllabi, assessments, and course materials aligned with departmental and program learning outcomes.
• Evidence of effectiveness in teaching, such as teaching evaluations, lesson plans, teaching philosophy, or supervisor/community references.
• Commitment to Indigenous language revitalization, cultural stewardship, and ethical engagement with language communities.
• Ability to contribute to departmental and program service, including curriculum coordination and participation in language‑related initiatives.
• Eligibility to work in the United States by the start date of the appointment.
• Education – Masters degree in related field and/or equivalent language expertise, teaching experience, and community‑recognized knowledge are demonstrated.

Required Experience (Optional)

• Community‑recognized speaker of Cherokee or long‑term advanced second‑language speaker with demonstrated instructional proficiency.
• Prior experience teaching at an R1 or AAU institution, or familiarity with the expectations of research‑intensive universities.
• Experience teaching a coordinated language sequence and collaborating on shared curricula.
• Experience developing instructional materials for Cherokee language teaching, including original lesson plans, textbooks, open educational resources, or digital tools.
• Familiarity with language instruction technologies such as learning management systems (e.g., Canvas), multimedia materials, hybrid/online tools, or language‑learning platforms.
• Experience working with tribal governments, educational programs, or community partners in language education or revitalization initiatives.
• Ability to contribute to interdisciplinary or community‑engaged language programming such as events, workshops, or language‑culture initiatives.
• Experience mentoring students in language learning or supporting co‑curricular language activities.

The position will remain open until filled.

The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.