Work-Based Learning Continuum of Activities

Work-Based Learning Instructional Strategies

Career Exposure

Awareness and Exploration - Learning about Work

• Build awareness of career opportunities.
• Develop essential workplace skills in alignment with the Standards for Career Ready Practice (PDF).
• Explore career options based on interests, skills, and guided self-assessments.
• Examine options for careers and related post-secondary training.

Career Engagement

Preparation - Preparing for Work

• Prepare for careers through occupation-specific classroom learning and industry engagement.
• Develop knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for success in careers.
• Build a resume inclusive of WBL experiences.
• Make informed decisions about careers and related post-secondary training.

Career Experience

Training - Learning through Work

• Train for careers through occupation-specific work experience.
• Apply knowledge, skills, and competencies to occupation-specific projects.
• Build a professional portfolio inclusive of a resume and industry certifications.
• Interact professionally with industry experts, mentors, and employers in workplace environments.

Sample Introductory WBL Activities

• Interactive career Panel
• Career research
• Career interview
• Interest inventory
• Student leadership in Career Technical Student Organization (CTSO)
• Industry-led workshop or project
• Career fair

Sample Concentrator WBL Activities

• Mock interview
• Job shadow
• Student-led enterprise
• Mentorship
• Industry-led master class or workshop
• Registered pre-apprenticeship
• Simulated workplace environments

Sample Capstone WBL Activities*

• Career Planning
• Professional networking
• Paid Internship
• Registered youth apprenticeship
• On-the-job training

*Career Training can occur in CTE Pathways and CTE Work Experience Education (WEE) Programs. Capstone WBL activities build on introductory and concentrator activities. All activities can occur throughout the CTE pathway or WEE program.