Learn more about the key elements that make up quality work-based learning experiences and common misconceptions.
What is and isn't Work-Based Learning (WBL)?
Provided below you will find the key elements that make up quality work-based learning experiences. There are also common misconceptions about work-based learning.
WBL is...
a collection of experiences that start with career awareness, move to career exploration and then into the hands-on preparation necessary to pursue a specific career pathway after high school graduation
an ongoing process that can take place as early as grades in the elementary level all the way to high school
aligned with students’ career interests
exposure to a wide range of career pathways
a collaboration between employers with a partnership and educators with clearly defined roles
Intentionally planned so that students are provided the ability to reflect on their experiences
Reportable in SIS grade books as an assignment that is entered by teachers in all high school courses
a School Accreditation requirement that will show up on VDOE reports in the command center
WBL is not...
experiences that remove the need for classroom instruction
only available for students enrolled in Career and Technical Education courses at the middle and high school levels
an experience-based activity that does not tie to a curricular area of study
a graduation requirement so these experiences will not show up on student transcripts at this time