Work-Based Learning

WBL is defined by the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, commonly referred to as Perkins V, as sustained interactions with industry or community professionals in real workplace settings, to the extent practicable, or simulated environments at an educational institution that foster in-depth, firsthand engagement with the tasks required in a given career field, that are aligned to curriculum and instruction. The NJ DOE promotes the implementation of many types of WBL that align with the definition provided by Perkins V. The WBL experiences build upon a student's education to support a chosen career pathway. WBL experiences provide students the opportunities to clarify their career goals, explore the multitude of career possibilities, develop and practice fundamental employability skills, apply high level academic and technical skills at the worksite, and consider what further education and training may be needed. Overall, these experiences are meant to enhance the students' career readiness for the future workforce. 

There are many types of WBL experiences that can be provided by school districts. Each type can be categorized by the rigor of the work experience and how much engagement the student has with the experience. The NJ DOE has developed a continuum consisting of four career categories in which WBL experiences are organized. This continuum provides a framework for districts to implement WBL opportunities that build upon student successes. The four career categories are defined as:

• Career Awareness - Initial experiences that build and increase knowledge of the variety of career opportunities available in any given industry needed to pursue a career interest or goal.
• Career Exploration - Recurring experiences that encourage the development and understanding of the skills necessary for career planning and decision-making.
• Career Preparation - Sustained interactive experiences with professionals from business and industry that are designed to deepen student knowledge and develop essential skills related to a chosen career pathway.
• Career Training - Paid experiences that prepare individuals through specific instruction by teaching the skills, knowledge, and competencies needed for employees to perform a specific job or occupation within the workplace.

Students

• Explore and learn about various fields and careers, so they can make more informed decisions about their goals in life and the education they need to reach those goals
• Establish and network with professional contacts in various career fields
• Increase their motivation and appreciation for staying in school and pursuing postsecondary education and/or career opportunities
• Observe the demeanor and procedures of workplace professionals
• Develop and practice positive work-related habits and attitudes including the ability to think critically, solve problems, work in teams, and resolve issues
• Thrive in a more practically oriented program

School District

• Meet the needs of diverse student populations by providing career development services to help students identify, plan, and prepare for career options
• Make education more relevant and valuable to students
• Increase awareness of occupations and available support services schoolwide
• Increase student retention, graduation and placement rates
• Promote and foster school to community interaction
• Expose students to state-of-the-art equipment, technology and techniques

Business & Industry

• Encourage and assist students in understanding the education and skills they need to secure jobs and be successful employees
• Provide employees with recognition and valuable opportunities to serve as ambassadors for the company by developing their public speaking, communications, and leadership skills
• Form stronger partnerships with local schools and help ensure that the curriculum is supporting the development of Career Ready Practices
• Provide opportunities for training a pool of skilled and motivated potential future employees
• Reduce training/recruitment cost

Community & Parents/Guardians

• Create an environment of collaboration and cooperation among the school, employers and community
• Encourage respect, tolerance and understanding among different groups
• Contribute to building a more productive and diverse economy
• Foster confidence in the school system as practical and beneficial results are observed
• Aid in supporting career choices of young people