In recent years, career and technical education (CTE) programs that include quality work-based learning (WBL) opportunities for students have gained significant traction among educators, policymakers, and stakeholders as an effective way to prepare students for the labor market. However, a lack of data on WBL--which many CTE students participate…

This study presents a course model to demonstrate how students' current work experiences can be utilized as a viable alternative to internships. While internships have been shown to enhance a student's college experience, underserved and underrepresented students are often unable to pursue this high impact practice due to financial,…

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a detrimental impact on many facets of students' successful transitions from secondary into postsecondary education, particularly for students who depend on in-person delivery of content and experience. For many young people, paid work-based learning has historically provided a needed source of income, and its…

This document describes a project that developed this K-12 generic Work Experience Handbook to help Wisconsin high schools implement work experience programs. The first 13 pages describe the purpose and objectives of the project and the need for the handbook; the methods used to develop it, including the use of steering and work committees and…

To address the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) client's need for career development experience and skills, the Affirmative Action Office of Dane County (Wisconsin) and the Adult Work Experience Program (AWEP) staff plan to implement a year-long training program aimed at job exploration, internship, and personalized decision…

Wisconsin's Department of Public Instruction has outlined a business education program that includes training in information technology (IT) in grades K-4 and training in IT and management in grades 5-8. In grades 9-12, Wisconsin students receive training in IT, management, and financial services. Students in grades 9-12 also have opportunities to…

Workplace mentoring has been identified as an important aspect of work-based learning in projects conducted under the School-to-Work Opportunities Act. By establishing relationships with caring and competent adults who can provide emotional support and facilitate skill development, less-experienced youths and adults are more likely to bridge the…