Work-Based Learning Misconceptions

Learn more about the key elements that make up quality work-based learning experiences and common misconceptions.

What is and isn't Work-Based Learning (WBL)?

Provided below you will find the key elements that make up quality work-based learning experiences. There are also common misconceptions about work-based learning.

WBL is...

  • a collection of experiences that start with career awareness, move to career exploration and then into the hands-on preparation necessary to pursue a specific career pathway after high school graduation
  • an ongoing process that can take place as early as grades in the elementary level all the way to high school
  • aligned with students’ career interests
  • exposure to a wide range of career pathways
  • a collaboration between employers with a partnership and educators with clearly defined roles
  • Intentionally planned so that students are provided the ability to reflect on their experiences
  • Reportable in SIS grade books as an assignment that is entered by teachers in all high school courses
  • a School Accreditation requirement that will show up on VDOE reports in the command center

WBL is not...

  • experiences that remove the need for classroom instruction
  • only available for students enrolled in Career and Technical Education courses at the middle and high school levels
  • an experience-based activity that does not tie to a curricular area of study
  • a graduation requirement so these experiences will not show up on student transcripts at this time

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