Work-based learning (WBL) is a way to introduce students to careers and prepare them for the future workplace. More and more, career-readiness initiatives are being delivered in the K-12 and Community College settings, to ensure that students who choose not to go on to obtain a four-year degree are still being adequately prepared for their future careers.
What Is Work-Based Learning?
Work-based learning experiences give students the opportunity to do more hands-on learning through partnerships with local companies. Since it can be difficult to manage the logistics of having students on-site, virtual internships are a growing solution that gives local businesses the ability to partner with community K-12 schools and provide WBL experiences that help prepare the students in their communities for the future workplace.
Benefits of Work-Based Learning
Both the students who participate in WBL programs and the companies who offer internships benefit greatly from the experience. Not only are students prepared to step into entry-level positions after graduation, but businesses are able to build a pipeline of talent. Studies have shown that employers who participate in WBL programs have improved retention rates.
Getting Started with Work-Based Learning in Your District
It can be a complicated process for K-12 schools to engage employers to provide internships for students. However, the value of these programs speaks volumes in how they are able to provide students with better career readiness. To support K-12 and community colleges in their efforts to provide work-based learning programs for their students, Global Grid for Learning (GG4L) has developed a model for virtual internships to allow employers and schools to deliver these WBL experiences to more students.
Global Grid for Learning – Certified School Passport Administrator (CSPA)
The Certified School Passport Administrator virtual internship builds students’ skills in IT for enterprise software applications and prepare them for in-demand jobs in information technology. The CSPA program complements existing IT pathways and provides a real-world experience to see enterprise IT in operation. GG4L is committed to developing career readiness for schools to improve pathways to in-demand jobs for students and to create stronger connections between the business and education community.
GG4L is proud to be an Ignite winner, recognized for their work in career readiness and work-based learning. Read our press release here: https://catalyzechallenge.org/winners/global-grid-for-learning-certified-school-passport-administrator-cspa/.
GG4L now offers a turnkey virtual internship program called the Certified School Passport Administrator Program (CSPA), which is free for students and institutions. This unique program prepares students for jobs in enterprise software support, including in jobs your local institution and community.
