Work-based learning (WBL) is a topic I’m passionate about.
Last week, I attended an insightful Riipen workshop, The Power of Work-Based Learning, which reinforced the importance of bridging the gap between education and employment.
The session highlighted how WBL enhances learners’ employability and readiness for the job market. A recent Strada report revealed that 60% of students at four-year institutions cannot participate in internships due to course loads, job commitments, and financial constraints. This points to a critical need for innovative solutions to help students gain real-world experience.
During the webinar, leaders from national organizations and higher education institutions shared strategies to expand access to these opportunities for all learners, especially those who face barriers. They discussed efforts to empower students with the skills and confidence needed for success in both their academic journey and future careers.
Despite the high demand—8.2 million learners sought internships in 2023—only 3.6 million opportunities were available, with just 2.5 million considered quality experiences. Addressing these disparities is key to creating equitable pathways for student success.
For more information, check out these resources and site:
https://lnkd.in/gJ47Up9P
https://www.nactel.org/
https://lnkd.in/gHPVyerF
https://lnkd.in/gmuhxmee
https://cic.edu/
https://lnkd.in/gWsH_9gy
https://lnkd.in/gPvKzwG3
https://www.riipen.com/
https://lnkd.in/gpn_n_Ae