Work-Based Learning Continuum

Learning ABOUT work

Students build an understanding of different industries and career options. These experiences are designed to inspire curiosity and broaden awareness without requiring hands-on participation.

• Guest Speakers: Industry professionals visit classrooms (in person or virtually) to share career experiences, industry trends, and pathways.

• Career/Job Fairs: Interactive events that allow students to meet employers, ask questions, and learn about career paths and qualifications.
• Company Tours: Students visit local businesses to observe daily operations and explore various work environments.
• College & Technical School Visits: Postsecondary exploration opportunities that help students connect future education or certifications with career goals.
   

Learning FOR work

Students explore specific careers in greater depth, helping inform high school course selections and long-term goals.

• Informational Interviews: One-on-one conversations with industry professionals (in person, virtually, by phone, or email) to gain insight into specific careers.
• Job Shadowing: Short-term experiences where students observe professionals in the workplace, typically lasting a few hours. Students ask questions, explore roles, and gain first hand exposure to daily tasks.
• Mentorships: Long-term relationships where students receive career guidance and support from industry professionals. Mentorships involve regular discussions that promote goal-setting, confidence, and career clarity.
   

Learning THROUGH work

Students apply classroom learning in real-world or simulated environments to build job-specific skills and professional behaviors.

• Industry-Based Projects: Classroom instruction is paired with real industry challenges. Students work independently or collaboratively to solve problems and apply CTE knowledge with industry input.
• Scenario & Simulation Projects: Teacher-Led activities that replicate real-world workplace scenarios to help students practice technical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in a safe, classroom-based environment.
• Service Learning Projects: Students address a community need by applying technical skills from their CTE programs. These projects include planning, implementation, and reflection to build a sense of service and civic responsibility.
   

Learning AT work

Students engage in structured, often credit-bearing roles where they apply their skills in actual workplaces. These experiences are designed to prepare students for employment in specific industries or occupations.

• Internships: In-person or virtual placements that provide students with direct exposure to professional environments aligned with their career interests.
• Diversified Cooperative Education (DCE): A type of Cooperative Education (Co-Op) program that allows students to gain supervised, real world work experience across a variety of industries. Students explore different career interests while developing essential workplace skills.  
• Pre-Apprenticeship: Introduces students to skilled trades or specific occupations through early hands-on experiences, safety training, and foundational instruction. Prepares students for future participation in Registered Apprenticeship programs.
• Registered Apprenticeship: Paid, on-the-job training programs approved by the U.S. Department of Labor or State Apprenticeship Agency. Students receive formal instruction and earn a nationally recognized credential upon completion.
  • Learn more about Arizona Apprenticeship Programs
• Healthcare Clinicals: Practical, hands-on experiences for students in healthcare pathways. Students apply classroom knowledge in clinical environments, often observing or assisting in patient care.
• Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAE): Outside-of-class, hands-on agricultural experiences where students apply what they’ve learned in class. Projects are aligned with individual interests and help students develop technical and business skills in the agricultural industry.