Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

- To lead and advise colleagues in the content planning, development and engagement strategy for online and on-site early childhood STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) programming for children ages 2-8 and their caregivers
- To research, interpret and communicate early childhood learning strategies and best practices and provide recommendations and analysis during the development and review of programs and exhibitions

Duties / Responsibilities :

- Conceptualizes content for early childhood workshops/programs including conducting research, outlining deliverables, identifying resource needs such as technical resources, scientific expertise, supplies, etc., and planning program delivery strategies
- Develops program elements by writing scripts, training manuals and other relevant materials, and by creating and delivering prototype programming and staff training
- Brainstorms, researches and proposes opportunities for new science engagement program offerings – with a primary focus on online content – which appeal to the early childhood target audience
- Proposes and incorporates innovative and interactive elements into programming content to increase the likelihood that participants will have an engaging experience
- Suggests potential topics of interest and value within the content parameters of a project and works with other programming colleagues towards the development of ideas and proposals
- Delivers public programming which may include live and pre-recorded video demonstrations, revenue generating online workshops, educational and special activities, facilitated panels and community events, etc.
- Works with scientific subject matter experts, graphic designers, video production specialists, science writers, and marketing and social media professionals to complete program development, ensure scientific accuracy, and effectively promote programs to target audiences
- Advises on and recommends different early childhood learning methods in order to adapt programming to target age groups
- Participates in the evaluation of existing exhibits and programs and provides analysis of new or proposed exhibits and programs from an early childhood education perspective
- Conducts research on early childhood program offerings at other science centres, museums, and tourist attractions to assess market opportunities and recommend new or renewed offerings at the OSC
- Collaborates with the Development and Partnerships team to form potential revenue generating partnerships with educational institutions and other stakeholders
- Supports colleagues in other departments during content development targeted towards by providing advice and recommendations on best practices
- Develops interdepartmental relationships within the Learning and Engagement departments and other branches to maintain an effective and integrated approach to program development, delivery and promotion
- Initiates and maintains relationships with early childhood education and pedagogical experts in the industry, academic communities, and provincial/federal research facilities to consult and partner with on program design and educational goals
- Represents the OSC in the scientific and academic communities through personal discussions with individual researchers and subject matter experts, attending conferences, and participating on committees
- Supports community outreach programs to assist in the promotion of program offerings to attract program participants

Staffing and Licensing :

N/A

Knowledge :

- Theoretical and practical knowledge of early childhood development best practices as well as ongoing developments and current research in the early childhood education field to support program development and renewal and to create a high quality early childhood education environment
- Broad, general knowledge of a variety of fields of science with an understanding and appreciation of the social relevance of science and technology for children ages 2-8 and their caregivers
- Knowledge of presentation principles and techniques to deliver engaging, exciting, dramatic, and interactive presentations, demonstrations, and activities which interest and educate children ages 2-8 and their caregivers as well as to advise and train colleagues/partners on program delivery strategies
- Knowledge of the priorities, strategic plan, and objectives of the OSC as well as the Science Experience branch's plans and priorities to support the integration of early childhood education programs and experiences with the overall objectives of the OSC and the branch
-Knowledge of computer software including presentation and instructional technology software such as PowerPoint and web-based video platforms, and administrative software such as Microsoft Office and email sufficient to develop scripts and program content and communicate and coordinate project plans with colleagues

Skills :

- Program development and organizational skills to collaborate with internal and external partners to plan, organize, coordinate and deliver programs
- Interpersonal skills to work co-operatively in a team setting and to liaison with groups across the OSC and with project stakeholders to achieve project goals
- Communication and advisory skills to discuss and provide advice and recommendations on program development, delivery and evaluation to department teams/program staff and to collaborate on strategies/ new program projects and initiatives
- Written and oral communication skills to prepare STEAM program materials relating to scientific and technical information including scripts, manuals, program proposal submissions, draft project plans, status reports, and planning documents
- Analytical skills to support the assessment of program development and delivery (e.g. target audience interests, delivery approach, relevance to early childhood development, revenue generating potential, etc.) by monitoring key performance indicators, analyzing program participation trends, and recommending new/revised strategies, measures and/or tools to address identified program gaps
- Adaptability in order to adjust delivery approach to diverse audiences (e.g. teachers, children aged 2-8, caregivers, other program participants, etc.) and levels of understanding of science and technology as well as to function in a variety of presentation areas (e.g. laboratory, auditorium, exhibit halls, etc.)
- Problem solving and technical troubleshooting skills to respond immediately to questions and other unexpected situations arising during program delivery (e.g., special needs, equipment malfunction, behavioural problems, etc.)
- Relationship management skills to form partnerships that facilitate the creation of early child education experiences and programs and to establish networks across the early childhood education industry and academic community

Freedom of Action :

Works under the general supervision of the Director, Science Engagement and within the context of the OSC's and the Science Experience branch's established business priorities and plans. Judgement is exercised in evaluating the relevance of the early childhood education content of a program or exhibit, and for making decisions and recommendations about the appropriateness of the proposed programming. Participates in the evaluation of program proposals with a view to early childhood education relevance, feasibility, and costs, and resources requirements. Judgement is exercised in assisting to determine the most cost/time efficient ways of solving communication and technical problems during program development.

The position is responsible for providing accurate, up-to-date and easily understood advice to program development colleagues in the creation of early childhood programming and the renewal of existing programs.