_______________________________________________ Planning and Development
Appreciate the Advantages of Work-based Learning
Work-based learning effectively prepares students to enter and make progress in the
world of work. However, no instructional method can perfectly simulate the real world
job environment. The best work-based learning combines learning on the job with
learning that is better handled in classrooms, shops, and laboratories, creating benefits
and advantages for everyone.
Student Advantages
·
Increases motivation;
·
Develops responsibility and maturity by strengthening resourcefulness, problem-
solving skills, self-confidence, and self-discipline;
·
Provides opportunities to explore occupational choices before making long-term
and costly investments in more training or education;
·
Offers an organized plan of training on the job under actual business conditions;
·
Develops human relations skills through personal interactions in job settings;
·
Provides skilled professionals to help students make the transition from school to
work;
·
Increases awareness of civil and social responsibilities;
·
Improves job entry and advancement;
·
Adds to financial resources;
·
Improves chances of at-risk students staying in school;
·
Provides technical education beyond that available at most schools;
·
Makes academic instruction relevant and applicable to the workplace.
Employer Advantages
·
Provides better employee candidate pool, which may reduce turnover;
·
May reduce training costs;
·
Shares employee screening function with school;
·
Provides opportunity to evaluate worker before deciding to hire full-time;
·
Produces workers with better attendance records;
·
Exempts employer from paying unemployment compensation taxes on student
wages;
·
Provides workers who bring new ideas, fresh approaches, and enthusiasm for
work;
·
Offers direct input into education and training provided by schools;
·
Improves image and prestige of the industry and/or business among student-
learners and with the community.
WBL Guide 2002 __________________________________________________ A -- 11