What is work-based learning? 


Work-Based Learning (WBL) is practical, hands-on activities or experiences through which a learner interacts

with industry professionals in a workplace, in an in-person, virtual, or simulated setting. Learners prepare for

employment or advancement along a career pathway by completing purposeful tasks that develop academic,

technical, and employability skills.


When does work-based learning have impact on a student or career seeker? 


WBL impacts individuals at various stages in their education and career pathways.

  • Career Exploration: Job shadowing, simulations, informational interviews with employers
  • Career Preparation: Internships, pre-apprenticeships, cooperative education, service learning
  • Career Training: Apprenticeships, on-the-job training, transitional jobs



Who is involved and work-based learning and what does each party do? 


Key WBL stakeholders and their roles and responsibilities:

  • Public elementary and secondary schools work with stakeholders to design, implement, and assess

        career exploration opportunities and evaluate student and program success.

  • Institutions of Higher Education provide career preparation opportunities; develop skills-focused programs; and promote credit for prior education, training, and experience.
  • Local Workforce Development Boards build critical links across employers, training providers, and job seekers.
  • Employers participate in the development of and provide essential resources for high-quality work-based learning opportunities.
  • Regional conveners ensure that WBL opportunities are properly scaled to meet local workforce needs, monitor equity and accessibility, and distribute grant funding when available.


What defines high-quality work-based learning? 


High quality WBL opportunities

  • Align to career pathways,
  • Incorporate meaningful job tasks,
  • Identify and validate skills to be gained,
  • Reward skill gains and offer compensation,
  • Support academic progress and achievement,
  • Integrate opportunities to develop professional networks, and
  • Measure and monitor progress for all partners.

Navigating Resources

Certificates

Certification

Degree

Digital Badge

Diploma

License

Micro-credential 

  • Micro-degree 
  • Nano-credential

North Central Texas Work-Based Learning Resources

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Texas Regional Pathways Network Regional Convener Grantee for North Central Texas (WDA 4)