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Work-Based Learning Program

This page provides information about the Work-Based Learning Program at Transition Plus. 

For information about the Minneapolis Public Schools Special Education High School Work Based Learning Program, please click here.

Two students shown in aprons preparing food.
Eight students shown standing and holding certificates of achievement from completing their job training.
Student shown standing behind a cash register at a food service establishment.
Student shown wearing a t-shirt that reads %22Goodwill%22

Work-based learning solves a problem that many jobseekers face: It’s hard to get a job without previous work experience, and it’s hard to get work experience without a job. Workplace learning experiences are especially beneficial for students who have been historically excluded from educational opportunities, professional networks, and social capital that often play a critical role in career success.

 

About Work-Based Learning

Work-based Learning (WBL) is a structured academic program where students engage in real-world activities with instruction occurring both at school and at a community-based setting with an employer. The experience provides students with opportunities to explore careers, master specific learning objectives, and earn academic credit under the supervision of a licensed work-based learning coordinator.

A graphic representation of the Work-Based Learning Models described above.

 

 

Work Based Learning Models 

  • Awareness Phase: WBL opportunities at the awareness levels serves as an introduction into the area of career employment. The activities that occur at this level usually are not observed at the worksite, but are implemented throught career-related activites. The purpose is to spark career-related interest with learners and open opportunities for additional opportunities for further career exploration.
     

  • Exposure Phase: This phases gives the learners the opportunity to become introduced with career through first-hand experience. This phase will emphasis utilizing the worksite to give the experience. The worksites are short-term. WBL activities within the Exposure Phase often afford learners opportunities to become acquainted with a career through first-hand experiences in the workplace. These short-term, introductory encounters provide insights relating to an industry or business, including environmental conditions, real-world application of concepts, and professional culture. Exposure activities also provide information about job roles and responsibilities associated with an occupation, thereby aiding in the identification of knowledge and skills required to pursue that career pathway.
     

  • Engagement Phase: This is comprised of extensive, structured opportunities that allow participants to authentically perform responsibilities required within the workplace. Learners benefit from increased technical knowledge and employability skills development, as well as enriched interactions with industry professionals.
     

  • Immersion Phase: This phase is most comprehensive, where learners participate in long-term work opportunities in an industry or occupation. These learn-while-you-earn positions embed a formal instructional component within the work experience, where learners receive customized hands-on training that often supports attainment of an industry-recognized credential.