Work-Based Learning

In addition to the core academic and technical components of a pathway, we believe that students must also have a comprehensive and effective work-based learning experience that is connected to what they learn in the classroom. This exposure helps sharpen students’ desire to increase knowledge and develop skills that are relevant to their career interests. These work-based learning opportunities can take the form of job shadowing, intensive internships, virtual apprenticeships, and school-based enterprises.

• Work Based Learning in Linked Learning: Definitions, Outcomes, and Quality Criteria (PDF, 450 KB)
  The primary purpose of this document are to: 1) Provide clarity for teachers, partners, and others implementing Linked Learning concerning the definition of high-quality, outcomes-drive work-based learning, and 2) Increase alignment among Linked Learning partners and technical assistant providers so that support for Linked Learning practitioners around work-based learning can be more coherent, coordinated, and effective.
• Preparing Youth for Life: The Gold Standards for High School Internships (PDF, 181 KB)
  This publication, produced by a National Academy Foundation-led task force, outlines 10 Gold Standards for high school internships, such as aligning academic learning with internship experiences and creating systems of support to sustain internships.
• Work-Based Learning in California: Opportunities and Models for Expansion (PDF, 427 KB)
  This WestEd report examines work-based learning in California, detailing implementation strategies and opportunities for expanding the approach to engage more students.
• Internship Handbook (PDF, 657 KB)
  A resource developed by the Career Academy Support Network for work-based learning coordinators.
• Mentor Handbook (PDF, 742 KB)
  A resource developed for mentorship coordinators and mentors for developing quality mentorship programs.
• Internship Toolkit for Employers, Students, and Teachers
  A resource developed by the National Academy Foundation for creating quality internship programs developed by the National Academy Foundation.
• Teacher Externship Guide
  A resource developed by the Career Academy Support Netowrk to help teachers plan for a successful externship experience.