Work-Based Learning is an important part of education:

It can provide the relevancy of information learned as well as assist with the knowledge and skills necessary in selecting a career.

Many businesses, agencies, and institutions offer work-based learning experiences, be they from the hosting site, being part of planning teams within state agencies, preparing the workforce through post-secondary institutions or offering foundational education and training through high school career and technical education programs.

The outcome is the same—provide work related experiences which will promote the selection of a career that fits their aptitudes and interests, along with meeting the workforce needs of Montana.

This manual was developed to indicate how to combine efforts, focusing on the student experience at the secondary level. Note, after the forward section, there are two sections:

• Section I--Focuses on a general understanding of work-based learning.

• Section II-- Focuses on additional information when work-based learning is part of an approved CTE program.

A Work-Based Learning Google Folder accompanies this manual for sample forms and documents. The file is fluid and ever changing as  best practices and resources are shared for inclusion. With that in mind, continually revisit to assist with your work-based learning efforts.