What is Career-Connected Learning?
Career-Connected Learning, previously Work-Based Learning, internships offer students a valuable opportunity to explore various career paths and gain real-world experience. By working alongside professionals in local businesses, students can discover their passions and develop essential workplace skills. These internships not only provide hands-on learning but also allow students to earn high school credit, making them a rewarding and beneficial experience.
Central Rivers AEA Career-Connected Learning Helps
- Students explore a variety of jobs and discover potential occupations in the local community.
- Students learn about the realistic demands of employment and grow in their ability to meet employer expectations.
- Students earn high school credit.
Student Benefits
- Gain confidence, maturity, independence and self-reliance.
- Develop values of strong work ethic and positive attitude.
- Become better communicators, leaders, and critical thinkers.
- Learn how to interact with employers and co-workers, while gaining experience interacting with business consumers.
- Observe collaboration, teamwork, and problem-solving first hand.
- Find success in non-academic areas while earning school credit.
- Increase self-awareness about job skills and preferences.
- Practice following directions and accepting feedback.
- Identify work skills/abilities and preferences.
- Discover potential occupations in the local community and obtain access to a network of professionals
Employer Benefits
- Make a difference in the life of a young adult.
- Actively participate in the educational development of future citizens in the community.
- Assist the job site supervisor in determining job duties for the work experience student.
- Give students a hands-on, vocational-related education in areas not available in the traditional school setting.
- Build relationships with students, local school districts, AEA, and community partners.
Central Rivers AEA Work-Based Learning Coordinator Responsibilities
- Develop immersive learning experiences that foster independence, guide career choices, build vocational skills, and pave the way for postsecondary success.
- Develop student interns’ employment skills through targeted curriculum and instruction.
- Assess and document interns’ growth in technical skills relevant to internship objectives.
- Maintain regular contact with student interns, school personnel, and employers.
- Observe and provide feedback and coaching to the student intern while on the job site.
- Collaborate with the internship job site supervisor to customize a safe, high-quality internship experience.
Career Exploration
Career exploration includes activities designed to assist with exploring and building awareness of the available careers in in-demand, high-wage and public good college and career pathways.
| Opportunities | Examples |
|---|---|
| Career Fairs & Business Tours | Local businesses participating/partnering (i.e. – Design Dash) |
| Simulated Work Experiences | Career Immersion Experiences Mock Interviews Professional Skills Workshops Lab work in the classroom |
| Job Shadows | Job Shadow Services Career Discovery |
| Employability Skills Courses | Careers Course |
| Project-based Learning | WBL Clearinghouse |
Work-Based Learning
Work-based learning is sustained project-based learning in partnership with an employer, simulated work experiences aligned with industry-recognized credentials, high-quality pre-apprenticeships aligned to an apprenticeship, student learner programs, internships, and apprenticeships.
| Opportunities | Examples |
|---|---|
| Sustained Project-based Learning | CAPS and other PBL programs |
| Simulated Work Experiences (credentials) | School-based Enterprise Virtual reality to use equipment that an employer uses |
| Internships | Internships can be virtual or in-person Work Experience Note: Work-release does not meet this definition |
| Pre-apprenticeships | Both classroom and work component with students being prepared for a specific career Earn and Learn |
| Apprenticeships | Longer-term commitment with employer with plans to continue the work after the school year wraps up Virtual apprenticeships allowed |
| Student-Learner Programs | CAPS and other PBL programs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any jobs that you can’t do?
We try to find a match as close to your interest as possible. Some placements have legal or safety restrictions on what students can and cannot do (i.e. some health, manufacturing, and law enforcement placements have restrictions.)
Do I get paid for this?
In some internship placements, you may get paid, but that is not a guarantee. In some cases, you can use the hours for future educational settings. You will also receive credit for the course once you complete all requirements.
When would I go to the job site?
Your internship will take place during your regular school day. This time covers travel and allows for extended on-site hours. You can work additional hours, but the core internship hours must be during the school day.
Can I work for my family or friend’s businesses?
While we appreciate your enthusiasm for working with family or friends, we prefer that you experience a job placement outside of your immediate circle. This helps you gain new experiences and learn how to navigate a professional work environment. Think of it as a chance to explore new career paths and build connections with people you may not know yet.
What if I don’t like the placement after a few weeks?
We understand that sometimes things don’t work out as planned. However, we work hard to match students with placements that are a good fit. We encourage you to communicate any concerns with your internship coordinator. Together, we can work to adjust your goals or expectations with your employer. Remember, the goal is to complete the full trimester/semester and gain valuable experience.
What if I already have a job, can I use this and just keep working?
It really depends on the situation. The program is designed to expose students to the daily expectations of a potential career you are interested in. We do not want this to be an extension of a part-time job you already have. New skills and experiences are a required part of your internship experience.
Is there a class or any work that I have to do?
Yes, there are a few things you’ll need to do outside of your internship hours. You’ll sign some required documentation, regularly reflect on your internship experience, and meet with your WBL Coordinator to discuss your experiences and set goals. Your coordinator will also visit your workplace to check in with you and your employer.