Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning (WBL) describes any formalized learning consisting of instruction that occurs concurrently at a school and a worksite. It is a collaborative effort among businesses, schools, students, and parents. Employers benefit from the opportunity to nurture students interested in jobs and careers within their companies, job in their communities, and/or in their industry.

The primary purposes are to:

  • Expose students to future options; and

  • Provide opportunities for skill development and mastery over time.

Outcomes and Benefits: Experiential learning comprises many types of learning activities. These activities include job shadowing, mentoring, entrepreneurship, service learning, volunteering, internship, cooperative work experience, youth apprenticeship or employment, career field and cluster camps, and career exploration and development. Some of the benefits or learning outcomes of participation in these activities include:

  • Academic and technical competencies

  • Informational ability

  • Teamwork skills

  • Creativity

  • Critical thinking

  • Problem-solving skills

  • Personal and environmental responsibility

Hands-on experience: Some examples of areas of hands-on training include automotive detailing, warehouse specialist, shop assistant, stocking shelves, support sales, carpenter’s assistant, nurse’s aide, kitchen assistant, general office assistant, childcare, and custodial maintenance.

Many other areas of vocational training are possible, depending on student abilities/interests, the opportunity of finding employment in that area, and our ability to develop an industry-based training site.

W-BL Flow Chart