Work-based learning

Work-based learning is a “planned, structured learning experience that provides [students] with real-life or simulated work experiences where they can develop and apply academic, technical, and essential skills; and contributes to the achievement of their postsecondary and employment goal(s).”

The list below contains some of the most common ways work-based learning can be incorporated in courses.

• Internships: a student acts as a trainee in an organization to gain experience, closely supervised by the employer. Can be paid or unpaid. Internships are generally at least 120 hours long.
• Part-time or full-time jobs: Paid positions related to their field of study where students apply their academic knowledge and gain hands-on experience. This is often connected to college work through formal reflection, or a discussion seminar.
• Clinical rotations and Practicums: Often in health fields, students have hands-on experiences while supervised by a professional.
• Industry projects: A project on any topic or issue facing an organization, done in coordination with and with guidance from the organization. This can be an individual or group project. Students can act as “consultants” on a particular problem or issue facing an organization.
• Shadowing: Students follow a professional in the industry “on the job” for a set period to learn about the job and industry; often in conjunction with Q&A sessions and reflective writing.
• Case studies with businesses: Industry professionals working with a class on a real-life situation the business faced, how it was solved, and how students would approach it.
• Visits and tours of businesses: Behind-the-scenes tours of organizations related to the field of study, often in conjunction with Q&A sessions and reflective writing.
• Service learning: Students completing community service with an organization, paired with reflective writing on the connections between their experience and the academic goals of the student.
• Apprenticeship: Highly-formal job training experience that involves studying with a master of the trade on the job.
• Performances: Students participating in performances and productions, demonstrating skills necessary to their field learned in class.