The rise of work-based learning programs
Learning by working is not a new concept, but it is gaining more popularity and recognition in the current education landscape. Work-based learning programs, such as apprenticeships, internships, co-ops, and dual enrollment, allow students to gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields while earning academic credits and credentials. These programs also help students develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability that are valued by employers in the 21st century.
According to a recent report by Forbes, a growing number of business leaders believe in the benefits of learning by working and are investing in creating more opportunities for students to engage in work-based learning. Some of the examples cited in the report are:
- IBM’s P-TECH program, which partners with high schools and community colleges to offer students a six-year pathway to earn a high school diploma, an associate degree, and a guaranteed job interview with IBM or another employer.
- Amazon’s Career Choice program, which pays for 95% of tuition and fees for its employees to pursue certificates or degrees in high-demand fields such as nursing, IT, and aerospace engineering.
- Siemens’ apprenticeship program, which recruits high school graduates and trains them for four years in advanced manufacturing skills while paying them a salary and benefits.
- Walmart’s Live Better U program, which offers its associates access to affordable college degrees and certificates in fields such as business, health care, and technology.
The benefits of learning by working for students and employers
Learning by working has many advantages for both students and employers. For students, it can help them:
- Explore their interests and passions and discover their career goals
- Gain relevant skills and knowledge that can boost their employability and earning potential
- Build their professional network and connections with mentors and peers
- Earn credentials and certifications that can accelerate their academic progress and career advancement
- Reduce their student debt and financial stress by earning income while learning
For employers, it can help them:
- Address the skills gap and talent shortage in their industries
- Increase their productivity and innovation by hiring skilled and motivated workers
- Reduce their hiring and training costs by developing their own talent pipeline
- Enhance their reputation and social responsibility by supporting education and workforce development
- Improve their retention and loyalty by offering career growth opportunities for their employees
The challenges and opportunities of learning by working
Despite the positive outcomes of learning by working, there are still some challenges and barriers that need to be overcome to make it more accessible and effective. Some of the challenges are:
- Lack of awareness and information among students, parents, educators, and employers about the availability and quality of work-based learning programs
- Lack of alignment and coordination among different stakeholders, such as schools, colleges, employers, government agencies, and community organizations
- Lack of standards and quality assurance for work-based learning programs to ensure their relevance, rigor, and equity
- Lack of incentives and support for students and employers to participate in work-based learning programs, such as financial aid, tax credits, or recognition
To address these challenges, there are some opportunities and strategies that can be pursued, such as:
- Increasing the awareness and promotion of work-based learning programs through media campaigns, events, websites, or social media
- Creating more partnerships and collaborations among different stakeholders to share resources, best practices, data, and feedback
- Developing more frameworks and guidelines for work-based learning programs to ensure their quality, consistency, accountability, and diversity
- Providing more incentives and support for students and employers to participate in work-based learning programs, such as scholarships, grants, subsidies, or awards
Learning by working is the future of education
Learning by working is not only a viable option for students who want to pursue their education and career goals but also a necessity for employers who want to remain competitive and innovative in the global economy. By combining academic learning with practical experience, work-based learning programs can create a win-win situation for both students and employers. Learning by working is the future of education that can prepare the next generation of workers for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
