Work-Based Learning Programs (WBL)

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that work-based learning (WBL) involves schools and employers working together to create a structured learning program connected to the academic and technical content learned in the classroom. The author points out that WBL provides a smooth transition from the educational world of theory to a work opportunity, which essentially is an apprenticeship. The paper relates that WBL can be considered as a method for retaining students that might otherwise drop out of school. The author compares his or her high school work experience with WBL and states that, today, WBL is a valuable tool for many students, particularly those who lack the kind of direction or discipline that makes college or the military viable choices. The paper notes that many colleges use work-study, independent study and directed study programs to enable students to get practical experience while continuing their education.

From the Paper:

"Keeping student workers engaged is a task that relies on more than the students' dedication. It also relies on the employers' willingness to become involved in the process. Cunningham, Dawes, and Bennett indicate that in order to facilitate work-based learning, student workers must be empowered to take control of their own learning process through self-managed learning. However, there is also a need to involve management and other upper-level workers sufficiently with the student workers so that they support the experimental learning process and undermine its value."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Bailey, Thomas R. Working Knowledge: Work-Based Learning and Education Reform. NY: RoutledgeFalmer, 2004.
• Boud, David. "Creating a Work-Based Curriculum." Work-Based Learning: A New Higher Education? David Boud and and Nicky Solomon, eds. Philadelphia, PA: SRHE and Open University Press, 2001. 44-58.
• Brown, Stephen D., and Robert W. Lent (eds.). Career Development and Counseling: Putting Theory and Research to Work. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley and Sons, 2005.
• --. Russell, Joyce E. A. "Work Performance and Careers." 203-224.
• --. Savickas, Mark. "The Theory and Practice of Career Construction." 42-70.

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