Function description
PhD candidate at CELSTEC under auspices of NeLLL

Social support in Learning Networks: enhancing the organizational socialization of new teachers
A Learning Network is an online, social network that provides learning opportunities in a particular domain. A Learning Network is not hierarchically organised, has no set curriculum; it organises itself through the interactions that learners engage in with each other. Because of this self-organising character a Learning Network is eminently suited to support life-long learning. The research in this PhD project is two-fold. One aspect focuses on problems primary school teachers face during their induction period, when starting a new position. Another part investigates how a Learning Network, and in particular a social support system can accommodate the needs of these teachers. Here the focus is on finding the most suitable candidate and supporting the interaction process. In this project you will use innovative techniques and methods such as internet technology, datamining, information retrieval, recommender systems, social matching, portlets, web 2.0 and language technologies. The project is closely linked to other information retrieval projects and you will collaborate with other PhDs and senior researchers to apply information retrieval in Learning Networks.

Function-demands
To be appointed, the candidate must possess a Master’s degree in Computer Science (datamining, information retrieval) and a proven interest in educational sciences and educational technology. A Master’s degree in Educational Technology is acceptable only with sufficient software development skills. The candidate is flexible, able to work independently and is result driven. Preferably, the candidate has good communication skills (oral and written) in Dutch, fluency in English (oral and written) is required. The candidate should show interest in educational science research, have proven experience in carrying out experimental research and statistical analysis. The candidate is familiar with and has experience in internet technology, datamining, information retrieval, recommender systems, social software, web 2.0 and language technology. The candidate is an experienced Java developer. Experience with Liferay portlets is an advantage.

Terms of employment
Located at Heerlen 1 fte, 4 years (1 year probation with 3 year extension) The salary is € 2.042,- gross per month in the first year and is expected to increase to € 2.612,- in the fourth year, for a full time appointment, contingent on satisfactory performance. The Open Universiteit Nederland offers good secondary and flexible terms of employment with regard to training, mobility, part-time employment and paid parental leave.

Further information
For further information concerning this position please contact Ms dr. Francis Brouns, tel. 045-5762152, e-mail francis.brouns@ou.nl, dr. Hendrik Drachsler, tel. 045-5762218, e-mail hendrik.drachsler@ou.nl, or Ms dr. Jo Boon, Capacity manager, tel. 045-5762510, e-mail jo.boon@ou.nl. For additional information about Open University of the Netherlands, you can visit our Website: www.ou.nl. Visit celstec.org for further information about CELSTEC.

Application
Letters of application should be accompanied by a Curriculum Vitae. Please put the vacancy number both on the letter and the envelope and send the application to: Open Universiteit Nederland Financieel administratief servicecenter (FAS) Postbus 2960 6401 DL Heerlen Nederland E-mail: solliciteren@ou.nl

Closing Date
15.01.2011

Organization
The Open Universiteit Nederland  is a university for lifelong learning. Our education is characterised by openness, flexibility and quality. In our courses and scientific programmes (Bachelor and Master) we apply the most recent technologies and educational insights. The research that is carried out in our academic departments is intertwined with our courses, ensuring a connection between learning content and the newest educational and technological developments. The university has an interdepartmental research institute, NeLLL (Netherlands Laboratory for Lifelong Learning). This institute bundles all research into lifelong learning. The Open University has 32.000 students and about 700 employees. The main campus is in Heerlen. Spread over the Netherlands there are 12 study centres and 3 support centres. There are also 6 study centres in Flanders.

Department
The Centre for Learning Sciences and Technologies (CELSTEC) develops, tests and shares new knowledge, technologies and services to enhance formal, informal and non-formal learning and to integrate these types of learning in different contexts (e.g., at home, at work). The themes of CELSTEC are related to Learning and Cognition, Learning Networks and Learning Media. CELSTEC is a young department with about 100 employees. The Learning Networks programme comprises two themes: professional development in Learning Networks and the emergence and maintenance of Learning Networks. The programme has adopted a design-based approach, tending to both theory formation and the development of tools and guidelines. NeLLL is the interdepartmental research institute of the university in which interdisciplinary research is carried out that focuses on all aspects of life-long-learning. All faculties, and CELSTEC participate in NeLLL.