Sessional Lecturer, INF2217H - Designing UX for Extended Reality Systems

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sessional Lecturer, INF2217H - Designing UX for Extended Reality Systems
Company: University of Toronto
Location: Toronto, ON, Canada
Job Type: Contract, Sessional
Category: Education / Higher Education
Date Posted: May 8, 2026
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (Implied by salary bands and academic progression)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role involves designing and delivering a graduate-level course on User Experience (UX) for Extended Reality (XR) systems, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR).
• Responsibilities include curriculum development, lecture preparation, student assessment, and fostering critical thinking on the societal impact of XR technologies.
• The position requires a strong understanding of embodied interaction techniques and user experience design methodologies within immersive environments.
• Successful candidates will contribute to the academic program by guiding students through the design, prototyping, and evaluation of XR applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a sessional lecturer position within a university setting, focusing on a specialized technology area. While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role, the emphasis on curriculum design, student assessment, and delivering a structured learning experience aligns with the operational aspects of academic program management and knowledge dissemination. The "extended reality systems" aspect introduces a novel technological domain that requires operational planning for content delivery and assessment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare comprehensive course materials, including lectures, seminars, and lab content for INF2217H: Designing UX for Extended Reality Systems.
• Deliver engaging and informative course content, facilitating student understanding of XR UX theories, tools, and design implications.
• Design, develop, and administer course assignments, tests, and examinations that accurately assess student comprehension and application of XR UX principles.
• Grade student submissions, providing constructive feedback to support their learning and development in XR design.
• Conduct regular office hours to provide academic support, guidance, and answer student inquiries related to course material and XR UX.
• Critically evaluate XR applications, guiding students to understand their potential impact on social practices, culture, and society.
• Explore and teach various prototyping methods relevant to XR application design.
• Study and instruct on evaluation techniques specific to XR user experiences.
• Facilitate discussions on embodied interaction techniques across different XR modalities (handheld, wearable, projected displays).

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are heavily weighted towards academic instruction and course management. The "designing UX for Extended Reality Systems" aspect implies a need for the lecturer to stay current with emerging technologies and design trends in VR, AR, and MR, requiring operational planning for content updates and practical demonstrations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Preferably a completed PhD degree in a field directly related to XR UX design, Human-Computer Interaction, or a closely aligned discipline.
• Alternatively, a Master's degree in a relevant field, combined with extensive and demonstrated professional experience in XR UX design or related areas.

Experience:

• Teaching experience at the university or college level is preferred, demonstrating an ability to manage a course and instruct students effectively.
• Proven experience in designing User Experiences for Extended Reality (VR, AR, MR) systems and applications.
• Demonstrated expertise in prototyping methods for XR environments.
• Experience in evaluating user experiences for immersive technologies.
• Familiarity with embodied interaction techniques and their application in XR.
• Ability to critically analyze the social, cultural, and societal impacts of XR technologies.

Required Skills:

• XR UX Design: Deep understanding of user-centered design principles applied to virtual, augmented, and mixed reality environments.
• Prototyping Skills: Proficiency in creating prototypes for XR applications (e.g., using tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, or specialized XR prototyping platforms).
• User Experience Evaluation: Expertise in methodologies for assessing the usability and effectiveness of XR interfaces and experiences.
• Curriculum Development: Ability to structure and develop a coherent and comprehensive course syllabus, learning objectives, assignments, and assessments.
• Instructional Delivery: Strong presentation and communication skills to effectively deliver lectures, lead discussions, and engage students in an academic setting.
• Critical Analysis: Capacity to guide students in analyzing the broader societal and cultural implications of XR technologies.

Preferred Skills:

• Academic Research: Experience in conducting research within HCI, XR, or related fields.
• Industry Experience: Significant professional track record in the XR industry, bringing practical, real-world insights to the classroom.
• Teaching Pedagogy: Familiarity with effective teaching methodologies and student engagement strategies.
• Familiarity with University Structures: Understanding of academic governance, course administration, and collective agreements (e.g., CUPE 3902 Unit 3).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "extensive professional experience" requirement for Master's degree holders suggests that practical, hands-on expertise in XR UX design is highly valued, potentially offsetting the need for a PhD. The implied experience level is mid-to-senior, given the specialized nature of the subject matter and the academic context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Course Design & Delivery Plan: A structured outline detailing how the course content will be delivered, including module breakdowns, weekly topics, and pedagogical approaches.
• Sample Assignment/Exam Design: Examples of assignments, projects, or exam questions that demonstrate the ability to assess student learning in XR UX design, focusing on practical application and critical analysis.
• Prototyping Case Study: A description of a past XR UX design project, illustrating the design process, prototyping tools used, challenges encountered, and outcomes achieved.
• Evaluation Methodology Showcase: An example of how user experience evaluation for an XR system was conducted, detailing the methods, metrics, and insights gained.

Process Documentation:

• Curriculum Development Process: A clear outline of how course learning objectives are translated into specific learning activities, content modules, and assessment strategies.
• Instructional Delivery Plan: A document detailing the approach to lectures, seminars, and labs, including methods for student engagement, interaction, and feedback.
• Assessment and Grading Process: A framework for grading assignments and exams, ensuring fairness, consistency, and alignment with learning objectives, including rubrics or grading criteria.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a traditional "operations" portfolio isn't expected, applicants should be prepared to demonstrate their expertise in designing and managing an academic course. This includes showcasing their pedagogical approach, curriculum development process, and ability to assess complex technical and theoretical concepts in XR UX.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Sessional Lecturer I: $10,889 CAD per year
• Sessional Lecturer I Long Term: $11,652 CAD per year
• Sessional Lecturer II: $11,652 CAD per year
• Sessional Lecturer II Long Term: $11,924 CAD per year
• Sessional Lecturer III: $11,924 CAD per year
• Sessional Lecturer III Long Term: $12,202 CAD per year

Benefits:

• As per the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 Collective Agreement, sessional lecturers may be eligible for benefits such as health and dental coverage, life insurance, and pension plan contributions, depending on the specific terms of their appointment and length of service.
• Access to University of Toronto resources, including library services, academic support systems, and potentially professional development opportunities.
• Opportunity to contribute to academic research and teaching excellence within a leading university.

Working Hours:

• An estimated 75 hours of work are anticipated for this role, particularly with an enrollment of 36 or greater. This includes preparation, delivery, grading, and office hours. The exact schedule (class times, office hours) will be determined and communicated.
• The appointment is for the Winter Term 2027, from January 1, 2027, to April 30, 2027.
• Lecturers are required to be located in geographical proximity to the University of Toronto premises to perform duties on campus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary figures represent the total compensation for the sessional appointment, not an hourly wage. The range reflects different seniority levels within the sessional lecturer ranks. The provided salary range is based on the information in the job posting, with the highest rate ($12,202 CAD) representing the potential maximum for Sessional Lecturer III Long Term within this specific course offering. Actual compensation will depend on the applicant's rank and the collective agreement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Academic Research & Technology Company Size: Large (University of Toronto is a major global university with tens of thousands of employees and students). Founded: 1827 (The University of Toronto has a long-standing history of academic excellence and innovation).

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Faculty of Information (iSchool), a specialized academic unit focusing on information studies, technology, and design.
• The lecturer will operate independently in delivering the course but will be part of the broader iSchool faculty, which includes professors, researchers, and other sessional lecturers.
• Collaboration will primarily involve administrative coordination with the Faculty of Information's administrative staff and potentially with other faculty members specializing in related fields for course content alignment or cross-disciplinary insights.

Methodology:

• The Faculty of Information emphasizes a research-driven and interdisciplinary approach to understanding and shaping the information landscape.
• For this course, the methodology will blend theoretical foundations of UX design with practical, hands-on experience in XR development and evaluation.
• A critical perspective on technology's societal impact is a core component of the faculty's ethos and is explicitly part of this course's objective.

Company Website: https://www.utoronto.ca/, https://ischool.utoronto.ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: The University of Toronto's Faculty of Information is known for its forward-thinking approach to information science, digital media, and user experience. The culture likely values academic rigor, critical inquiry, and practical application of knowledge, particularly in emerging technological fields like XR.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Sessional Lecturer (Academic Instruction & Course Management) This role represents an opportunity to gain experience in academic course delivery and curriculum management within a specialized technology area. It is suitable for individuals with deep expertise in XR UX who wish to share their knowledge and develop their teaching capabilities.

Reporting Structure:

• The Sessional Lecturer reports to the Faculty of Information's academic administration for course delivery and administrative matters.
• While the lecturer is responsible for the academic content and delivery of the course, pedagogical guidance and curriculum oversight may come from senior faculty members or the program director.

Operations Impact:

• The primary impact of this role is on student learning and development, equipping them with critical skills and knowledge in XR UX design.
• By delivering a current and relevant course, the lecturer contributes to the Faculty of Information's reputation for offering cutting-edge programs in digital media and user experience.
• The role indirectly supports the faculty's operational goals by fulfilling curriculum requirements and contributing to student recruitment and retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Academic Progression: Potential to be advanced to Sessional Lecturer II and III ranks, which carry higher rates of pay and are based on teaching effectiveness and experience within the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 collective agreement.
• Skill Development: Enhancement of teaching, curriculum design, public speaking, and assessment skills within a university context.
• Networking: Opportunity to connect with faculty, researchers, and students at a leading academic institution, potentially leading to future research collaborations or academic appointments.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise in XR UX design and pedagogy through course preparation and delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "growth" in this context is primarily within the academic sessional lecturer framework. Advancement is governed by the collective agreement, based on teaching performance and seniority. Opportunities for broader career growth might involve pursuing full-time academic positions, research roles, or leveraging this experience in industry roles related to XR education or training.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: University Campus (On-site required) Office Location(s): University of Toronto, Faculty of Information, 140 St. George Street, Toronto, ON. This is a central campus location.

Workspace Context:

• The role requires the lecturer to be present on campus for delivering lectures, seminars, and labs, and to hold office hours.
• Access to university facilities such as classrooms, labs (potentially equipped with XR hardware/software), libraries, and administrative support services will be provided.
• The environment is academic and collaborative, fostering intellectual exchange among students and faculty.

Work Schedule:

• The specific class schedule (days and times) is to be determined (TBD).
• The appointment runs from January 1, 2027, to April 30, 2027.
• The lecturer must be located within geographical proximity to the University premises to fulfill on-site duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for on-site presence means the lecturer will be integrated into the physical academic environment of the University of Toronto, necessitating a commute and adherence to campus policies and schedules.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of CVs and completed CUPE 3902 Unit 3 application forms for qualifications and experience relevance.
• Shortlisting: Identification of candidates who best meet the preferred and required qualifications.
• Interview: Potential for an interview with the hiring committee or program director to discuss teaching philosophy, XR UX expertise, and suitability for the course. This may involve a teaching demonstration or discussion of course design.
• Offer: Extension of an offer based on the collective agreement and candidate qualifications.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly highlights your academic credentials, teaching experience, and specific expertise in XR UX design, AR, VR, and MR. Include any relevant publications, research, or professional projects.
• Application Form: Complete the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 application form accurately and thoroughly. This form is crucial for assessing eligibility and rank according to the collective agreement.
• Teaching Philosophy Statement (Optional but Recommended): While not explicitly requested, preparing a brief statement on your teaching philosophy and approach to XR UX education can strengthen your application.
• Project Examples: Be prepared to discuss specific XR UX design projects you have worked on, detailing the problem, your role, the technologies used, the design process, and the outcomes. Focus on how you would translate these experiences into teachable concepts.

Challenge Preparation:

• Course Outline/Syllabus: Be ready to discuss how you would structure the INF2217H course, including learning objectives, key topics, potential assignments, and assessment methods.
• Teaching Demonstration: If an interview includes a teaching demonstration, prepare a short segment (e.g., 10-15 minutes) on a specific topic within XR UX design that showcases your ability to explain complex concepts clearly and engagingly.
• XR UX Trends: Familiarize yourself with recent developments, challenges, and ethical considerations in the field of Extended Reality UX design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes adherence to the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 collective agreement, particularly regarding the application form and ranking preferences. Applicants should review this agreement for detailed requirements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• XR Development Platforms: Unity, Unreal Engine (essential for prototyping and understanding XR application development).
• XR Hardware: Familiarity with VR headsets (e.g., Oculus/Meta Quest, HTC Vive) and AR devices (e.g., mobile AR, HoloLens) for demonstration and evaluation purposes.
• Prototyping Software: Tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or specialized XR prototyping tools for creating interactive mockups.

Analytics & Reporting:

• User Experience Metrics Tools: Software or frameworks for collecting and analyzing user interaction data in XR environments.
• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Familiarity with platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, or Moodle, which the university may use for course management and communication.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in a traditional business operations sense, but understanding how student data is managed within university systems (e.g., student information systems) could be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard XR development and prototyping tools is crucial. The lecturer must be able to not only teach the concepts but also demonstrate or guide students in using these technologies effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Academic Excellence: Commitment to upholding high academic standards in teaching, research, and student evaluation.
• Innovation: Fostering a forward-thinking approach to technology and design, particularly in emerging fields like XR.
• Critical Inquiry: Encouraging students to question, analyze, and critically assess the creation and impact of technologies.
• Inclusivity: Creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment for a diverse student body.
• Collaboration: Promoting teamwork and knowledge sharing among students and faculty.

Collaboration Style:

• Independent Course Management: Lecturers are generally autonomous in designing and delivering their assigned courses.
• Administrative Coordination: Collaboration with administrative staff for logistics, scheduling, and student record management.
• Faculty Engagement: Opportunities to engage with colleagues within the Faculty of Information for academic discussions, curriculum sharing, and potential interdisciplinary projects.
• Student Interaction: Direct and frequent interaction with students through lectures, seminars, labs, and office hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture within a university, especially a research-intensive one like UofT, values intellectual curiosity, rigorous scholarship, and the dissemination of knowledge. For this role, a passion for XR and its potential, coupled with a commitment to effective teaching, would be highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving Field: XR technology and UX design principles are constantly changing, requiring continuous learning and curriculum updates to remain relevant.
• Balancing Theory and Practice: Effectively integrating theoretical concepts with hands-on practical skills in a limited course timeframe.
• Diverse Student Backgrounds: Catering to students with varying levels of prior technical and design experience.
• Resource Management: Potentially limited access to specialized XR hardware or software, requiring creative solutions for labs and projects.
• Navigating Academic Structures: Understanding and adhering to university policies, procedures, and the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 collective agreement.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Pedagogical Training: Access to university resources for developing teaching skills and understanding adult learning principles.
• XR Industry Insights: Staying abreast of the latest developments in XR hardware, software, and design trends through industry engagement and research.
• Curriculum Enhancement: Opportunity to refine and expand the XR UX curriculum, potentially developing new modules or projects.
• Networking: Building connections within the academic and XR communities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is keeping pace with the dynamic XR landscape while delivering a structured and effective academic program. Growth opportunities are focused on enhancing teaching effectiveness and deepening expertise in a cutting-edge field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Teaching Philosophy: "Describe your approach to teaching User Experience design for Extended Reality. How would you balance theoretical concepts with practical application, especially for students with diverse backgrounds?"
• Course Design: "Outline how you would structure the INF2217H course. What key topics would you prioritize, and what types of assignments would you create to ensure students master XR UX principles?"
• XR Expertise: "Can you discuss a significant challenge you've faced in designing UX for an XR system and how you overcame it? What are the most critical considerations for designing intuitive XR interfaces?"
• Societal Impact: "How would you guide students to critically analyze the societal, cultural, and ethical implications of Extended Reality technologies?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to teach at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Information?"
• "How do you stay current with advancements in XR technology and UX design?"
• "How would you foster an inclusive and collaborative learning environment for this course?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Be prepared to walk through 1-2 key XR UX projects from your portfolio. Focus on the problem statement, your design process, the tools and technologies used, challenges encountered, and the measurable outcomes or lessons learned.
• Demonstrate Teaching Approach: Use examples from your projects to illustrate how you would explain complex XR UX concepts to students. Showcase your ability to break down technical jargon and present concepts clearly.
• Showcase Evaluation Methods: If applicable, explain how you have evaluated XR user experiences in past projects, detailing the methodologies and your findings.
• Connect to Course Objectives: Clearly articulate how your experience directly aligns with the course description and learning objectives for INF2217H.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating not just your expertise in XR UX but also your ability to translate that expertise into effective teaching and curriculum design. Be prepared to discuss the nuances of XR interaction and evaluation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this sessional lecturer position:

• Submit Application Package: Combine your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and the completed CUPE 3902 Unit 3 application form into a single PDF file.
• Address to Coordinator: Send the PDF to Nafiseh Yazdian, Administrative Coordinator, Faculty of Information, via email at sessional.ischool@utoronto.ca.
• Review Collective Agreement: Familiarize yourself with the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 Collective Agreement, particularly regarding application procedures, ranking preferences (Article 14:12), and terms of employment.
• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV clearly highlights your academic qualifications, teaching experience, and specific expertise in Extended Reality (XR), User Experience (UX) design, VR, AR, and MR. Emphasize any relevant professional projects or research.
• Prepare for Potential Interview: Anticipate questions about your teaching philosophy, XR UX expertise, course design capabilities, and ability to critically analyze technology's impact. Be ready to discuss your portfolio and teaching approach.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.