Work-Based Learning
Work-Based Learning (WBL) is a progressive approach to bridging the work-skills gap between school and high-demand, high-skill careers in Delaware.
The Office of Work-Based Learning (OWBL) collaborates with schools to create and promote work-based learning opportunities. We provide support to employers to on-board young talent into the workforce.
Companies work for a return on investment, individuals work for a return on family and community. Engagement in the Delaware Pathways Work-Based Learning program is about both.
Value Proposition for Work-Based Learning
- Delaware is Reinventing the Way it Prepares Young People for the World through Career Pathways
- Pathways is executed through collaborative efforts with the Delaware Dept. of Education, Delaware Dept. of Labor, Delaware Technical Community College, The Delaware Workforce Development Board, Rodel and United Way
- This collaborative effort connects K-12 public education, and higher education, with state and regional employment needs, creating Work-Based Learning partnerships
- Work-Based Learning is a model for enhancing classroom learning by connecting it directly to the workplace. Work-Based Learning is a key strategy for workforce development, facilitating a globally competitive educational system
- Alters the perception that school is the central place for learning by providing students with experience-based opportunities
- Employers play a critical role in students’ career readiness and there are many meaningful ways to be involved
- Work-Based Learning experiences enable students to feel confident and prepared for their future, and employers gain a talented pool of homegrown job applicants they helped generate
Employers Benefit from Student Interaction:
- Create Your Future Workforce – Don’t let retirements and lack of qualified candidates prohibit success
- Build a Stronger Community – A strong educational institution serves your workforce, their families, and the state’s economic vitality
- Employee Culture and Morale – Employees benefit through mentoring students creating higher morale and improved work culture, ultimately leading to increased productivity
- Business & Community Networking – Build relationships and connections, shared interests and goals, increased awareness
- Giving Back – Provide employees opportunities to give back and volunteer, and share experiences and knowledge to our next generation
Schools Benefit from Employer Interaction:
- Ensure Pathway Program Relevance & Quality – Match your needs with instruction taught, provide workplace expectations and clarify needs
- Keeping Teachers Current – Share Industry best practices and technology advancements
- Community Advocate – Drive economic development through your support of education and Work-Based Learning partnerships
- Challenge the Status Quo – Education can suffer from rules and practices which may no longer be relevant in a globally competitive environment; Work with Pathways and enable Work-Based Learning to help lead Delaware education in the 21st century