Work-Based Learning
Work-based learning (WBL) involves sustained meaningful interactions with industry or community professionals that fosters in depth, firsthand engagement with the tasks required in a given career field. Experiences may be delivered in workplaces, in the community, at educational institutions and/or virtually, as appropriate, and include a range of activities such as workplace tours, job shadowing, school-based enterprises, internships and apprenticeships.
Benefits to students:
Acquire experience and workplace skills.
Set and pursue individual career goals based on workplace experiences.
Get a "foot in the door" for possible future part-time, summer or eventual full-time jobs.
Become aware of career opportunities, explore those of interest and start preparing for them.
Build understanding of skills required to succeed in the workplace.
Recognize the relevance of education to career success and increase motivation for academic success.
Benefits to school:
Build relationships with the community.
Make classroom learning more relevant.
Enable students to share their experiences with peers and teachers.
Provide staff development opportunities.
Increase staff understanding of the workplaces for which they are preparing students.
Expand curricula by using workplaces as learning environments.
Benefits to employers:
Build positive relationships with school staff and students.
Help create a pool of better-prepared and motivated potential employees.
Strengthen employees' supervisory and leadership skills.
Learn about the knowledge and skills of today's students and tomorrow's employees.
Generate favorable visibility in the community.
Make contacts with potential candidates for part-time, summer or eventual full-time jobs.