Acting for Business Instructor

CalArts Extended Studies is a self-supporting unit within California Institute of the Arts, providing educational opportunities for creative professionals and lifelong learners. CalArts Extended Studies non-degree credit courses reflect the artistic and academic integrity of the degree curriculum at CalArts. Funding is generated through fees collected from a diverse and changing student population. Part-time instructor positions are on a course-by-course contracted basis.  The contract is for the duration of the set development period.

Any candidate that is offered employment with CalArts must complete the Form I-9 in accordance with the law. On the form, an employee must attest to their employment authorization. The employee must also present their employer with acceptable documents as evidence of identity and employment authorization. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Acting for Business: Skills for Effective Communication and Leadership
Course development dates: January 13-June 6, 2025, flexible hours
Estimated course delivery Dates: TBD

This asynchronous, online course will be developed for the following two formats: 

• a self-directed, massive open online course delivered on the Coursera platform, 4 modules, one of the courses in the Coursera Art of Filmmaking  Specialization
• an instructor-led, participatory, online course with a smaller class size, delivered on Canvas, CalArts’ learning management system, 6 weekly modules, one of the courses in the Art of Filmmaking Certificate 

The instructor will adapt the content for both modes of delivery and teach the course on Canvas.

This course introduces practical acting tools, allowing you to make greater connections in professional meetings, presentations, and business communications. Learn how to improve your ability to listen empathetically, communicate assertively, and influence others. This training introduces techniques for breathing, relaxation, establishing presence, enhancing focus, and deepening awareness. Gain the skills to communicate with openness, enthusiasm, and confidence.

In this course you will gain an understanding of: 

• empathy and observation skills
• communication through action and reaction 
• visual communication tools such as body language, movement, and gesture
• aural communication tools such as vocalization, articulation, inflection, and key words
• how to assess and manage audience engagement
• strategies to manage social and performance anxiety

• an advanced degree or comparable professional training in theater
• an active professional performance practice 
• an in-depth understanding of the required skills for business communications and presentations
• experience with online curriculum development and delivery for adult learners
• excellent interpersonal and presentation, written, and communication skills

Click to apply

To apply, please submit a:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Creative/Professional portfolio samples or link to website
• List of 3 references (contact information only)

Review of applications begins on December 9  at 4:00pm (Pacific Time). Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

The rate of pay for course development on both Coursera and Canvas platforms is $12,000. After production expenses have been accounted for and the Coursera course produces a positive net revenue share to CalArts, the instructor will receive a percentage of the annual revenue share of the Coursera course.

California Institute of the Arts understands that valuing diverse creative practices and forms of knowledge are essential to and enrich the institution’s core mission. As an employer committed to employment equity, we encourage applications from members of equity-seeking communities including women, racialized and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions. 

California Institute of the Arts shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.