Work Based Learning, or Structured Learning Experience (SLE), is a great opportunity for students who want to begin their work life and/or try different ideas out before committing to a path.  There is so much learning that happens in a first job- learning about yourself, learning about the work world, learning about others work styles that having the support of WBL provides structure for a student to enter the workforce in a positive way. 

Its never too early to explore careers. Whether it is hosting various professionals in class to describe their careers, learning about careers through imaginative play or games, or supporting early curiosity in young students, the benefits of learning about careers are noteworthy.

1. It's never too early to start thinking about the future. 
2. Potential benefits of early career work.
3. Hands-on learning in the early years match the cognitive development and motivational needs of students.

The use of Naviance Career Exploration and Strengths Explorer as well as exposure to Career and College Fairs have been useful ways to enhance our career development programs. 

Our students have access to Career Exploration tools in Naviance, as well as, given the opportunity to attend Career Fairs.

According to the ASCA, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process of developing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Counselors use SEL to improve student mental health, to reduce behavioral issues, and to create resiliency.

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions. Students in SEL programs are more likely to attend school and receive better grades, and are less likely to have conduct problems. Successful infusion of SEL can result in positive behaviors, increased academic success, and caring communities. That is our goal as school counselors.

1. Don't focus on "college for all" thought process.
2. Be sure to unify CTE educators and school counselors.
3. Create systems, resources, tools, outreach and support of college and career readiness efforts in the district.

 Just like extracurriculars, counselors can promote apprenticeship opportunities, internships, job shadowing and more. School counselors can also assist with resumes, cover letters, mock interviews and employability skills.

Work based learning and internship opportunities increases a student's employability by strengthening their skillset, their resume, and their job prospects.

Work-based learning adds to their resume and increases student's employability. 

What type of programs are offered at the middle school levels in your district?

I am just curious to know how schools began their WBL program in terms of outreach to businesses.  Did you send one form letter out to various businesses for different areas, and/or did you see help from parents who may have connections in their field of work?

How has your school district involved your CTE programs related to the use of technology with respect to career development?

What are the potential challenges of incorporating social-emotional learning into practice in your current role and/or school setting?

As you reflect on your school, university, or work setting, where are social-emotional learning principles present? List 1-3 examples.

What is the definition of SEL? Based on your own experience and setting, how do you personally define social-emotional learning?

What are three key takeaways you have from the information presented in this lesson?