Who This Course Is For
Counselors & Career Advisors
Developing or expanding WBL offerings
District & Program Leaders
Responsible for employer partnerships
Educators
Aligning instruction with career pathways
What You'll Learn
Define work-based learning (WBL) and identify common WBL opportunities in educational settings
Differentiate between awareness, exploration, preparation, and training experiences
Evaluate the strengths and gaps within an existing WBL program
Align WBL initiatives with student readiness, career pathways, and institutional goals
Explain the four stages of the Work-Based Learning Continuum
Identify key stakeholders involved in developing and sustaining WBL programs
Develop strategies to expand employer partnerships and student access
Create an actionable plan to build or strengthen a comprehensive WBL program
Outcomes
Gain foundational knowledge and practical tools to design, implement, and enhance work-based learning programs within schools, districts, and educational organizations. This course equips educators, counselors, and program leaders with a structured framework for developing WBL initiatives that increase student engagement, strengthen employer partnerships, and improve postsecondary and career outcomes. By the end of the course, you'll be prepared to assess current programming, identify areas for growth, and implement strategic improvements that expand opportunities and ensure meaningful student experiences.
Applied Learning
Throughout the course, you'll apply the Work-Based Learning Continuum to your own educational context.
Define work-based learning (WBL) and identify common WBL opportunities in educational settings
Differentiate between awareness, exploration, preparation, and training experiences
Evaluate the strengths and gaps within an existing WBL program
Explain the four stages of the Work-Based Learning Continuum
Identify key stakeholders involved in developing and sustaining WBL programs
Develop strategies to expand employer partnerships and student access
You'll leave with a practical program plan that supports scalable, sustainable work-based learning initiatives.
Why Career Advisors Choose ICAD
"This course has provided me with the skills needed to better assist my high school seniors in selecting the best paths for them as they graduate and head out into the world."
"Learning how to scan the environment, identify stakeholders, and build a strong promotion plan gives structure to the work we are already doing in connecting students to career opportunities. It reinforces the importance of being intentional and strategic, rather than reactive, which leads to stronger program outcomes."
"The course was easy to navigate and the assignments challenged me to rethink how I engage with students."