Job Summary:
The Senior Specialist MS Teams for Distant Learning is responsible for designing and implementing Microsoft Teams solutions tailored for distant learning in higher education environments. This role involves designing and implementing MS Office for Higher Education.
The expected duration of the project is 6 months.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Platform Design
Requirements Collection:
- Conduct needs assessments to identify the technical, pedagogical, and user-experience aspects required for effective virtual learning.
- Collaborate with stakeholders, including educators, IT administrators, and instructional designers, to gather detailed requirements for the distant learning platform.
- Document all collected requirements clearly, prioritizing features and functionalities based on user needs and organizational goals.
Design Blueprint Document:
- Develop a comprehensive design blueprint that outlines the architecture of the MS Teams setup, including configurations, integrations, and workflows tailored for distant learning.
- Ensure the blueprint incorporates scalability and flexibility to adapt to future requirements or increased user demand.
- Include detailed visual diagrams, user access hierarchies, and a roadmap for deployment phases.
2. Platform Implementation
Configure, Customize Microsoft Teams for Distance Learning:
- Set up Teams environments, channels, and permissions to align with the needs of educators, students, and administrators.
- Customize features such as meeting templates, breakout rooms, and live event setups to support diverse learning scenarios.
Teams Integrations:
- Integrate Microsoft Teams with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and tools like OneDrive, SharePoint, and Microsoft Forms to streamline workflows for assignments, exams, and resource sharing.
- Implement connectors and APIs to enable seamless communication between Teams and third-party tools such as Moodle, Kahoot, Quizlet, or other educational apps.
Provide System Configuration Documentation:
- Prepare detailed documentation of the implemented configurations, including settings, workflows, and integration points.
- Ensure the documentation is clear and accessible for technical teams and end-users, serving as a reference for troubleshooting or future enhancements.
3. Training and Handover
Train a Team Member on Solution Setup, Configuration, and Maintenance & Support:
- Develop team members by walking them through the end-to-end setup and configuration process of Microsoft Teams for distant learning.
- Provide practical, hands-on training to enable them to manage routine support tasks and address common technical issues independently.
- Share troubleshooting techniques and encourage a proactive approach to system maintenance and user support.
Prepare and Deliver Implementation Guidelines:
- Develop a structured implementation guide outlining best practices, key workflows, and technical configurations for future reference.
4. Training and Support
Conduct Workshops and Training Sessions:
- Organize interactive workshops to train educators, trainers, and end-users on how to effectively leverage Microsoft Teams for virtual classrooms and collaborative learning.
- Leverage specialized training materials, such as videos, manuals, and quick-reference guides, to cater to varying skill levels.
Provide Advanced Technical Support:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for addressing complex technical issues or escalations related to Microsoft Teams and its integrations.
- Implement robust troubleshooting procedures to resolve platform-related problems efficiently, minimizing disruptions to learning activities.
- Analyze recurring issues and develop proactive measures or updates to prevent future occurrences.
5. Collaboration and Communication
Partner with Project Teams and Stakeholders:
- Actively engage with project teams, instructional designers, and organizational stakeholders to understand the pedagogical and administrative goals of the distance learning initiative.
- Assist in Developing Virtual Classroom Protocols and best practices to ensure engaging learning experiences.
Qualifications and Skills:
Education:
Bachelor's degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
Experience:
- Minimum of 10 years in IT, EdTech, or a related field, with 5+ years specifically managing MS Teams or similar collaboration platforms.
- Experience in virtual learning environments or educational technology implementation is highly desirable.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 suite, particularly Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Power Automate.
- Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and third-party educational apps.
- Knowledge of security protocols and compliance in digital learning environments.
Soft Skills:
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Good English communication and strong presentation skills, with the ability to train non-technical users.
- Collaborative mindset and adaptability in dynamic educational settings.
