Work-Based Learning
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Work-Based Learning (WBL) consists of activities and experiences which involve practical, hands-on opportunities that link the classroom and the workplace, allowing students to acquire academic, technical, and employability skills through interactions in real work environments.
WBL provides students an avenue to discover strengths and interests within career fields and involves a collaboration of multiple partners to develop a method for conveying academic concepts and workplace skills required for a student to successfully transition from school to further education and careers. The goal is to provide students the opportunity to develop relevant skills and help employers access and expand the workforce talent they need to become competitive in a global economy.
The WBL program is part of a continuum of programs that offer authentic work and educational experiences that follow a career pathway. Partnership agreement developed between students, educational institution, and sponsoring employer, allow the student to participate simultaneously in a learning and work experience component. Successful completion typically results in earning a workforce credential or other educational credit at the high school and in some programs, at the college level.
Types of Work-Based Learning
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In instructional work-based learning, students engage in learning through extended classroom lab settings, usually two-to three periods per day. The lessons and activities move students through progressively more complex and rigorous content, which aligns with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, as well as, industry standards related to the program of study or pathway.
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A combination of paid on-the-job learning and formal classroom instruction that helps a student master the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed for career success. An internship is a temporary job position that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and on-the-job training in a professional setting. They can last from several weeks to several months.
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WBL experiences occur in a paid or unpaid arrangement. A written agreement between the school, student, and employer outlines expectations and supervision requirements. The student may attend school for a halfday, then proceed to work. Schools and employers work with the student to determine the best schedule for the student’s success. Employment can last during the school year and sometimes extend to a permanent position.
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Ysleta Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, genetic information, or age in its programs, activities, or employment. El Distrito escolar de Ysleta no discrimina en base a raza, color, nacionalidad, religión, sexo, discapacidad, la información genética, y/o edad, en sus programas, actividades, o empleo.
