The Work-Based Learning Life Cycle

PJ West, a former Fulton High School student, shared his story of the work-based learning opportunities available to him and the path it set him on. PJ was enrolled in an academy-focused high school while also participating in an apprenticeship program with Muse Knoxville, which led to an internship at the University of Tennessee.

PJ’s journey epitomizes the life cycle of work-based learning and how it contributes to the success for both students and organizations. Representatives from each step of the way recently sat down to share their experiences in a video produced by the Knoxville Chamber, designed to encourage businesses to become more involved with work-based learning initiatives.

“MAP is our Muse Apprenticeship program,” said Allison Comer, Muse Knoxville Executive Director. “We allow students from local area high schools to participate in individualized workforce development programming.”

Work-based learning benefits students by allowing them to gain real-world experience and develop practical skills in a professional setting. This hands-on approach helps students apply their knowledge to actual work scenarios, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts and improving their problem-solving abilities.

“Work-based learning provides our students an opportunity to have real-world hands-on experiences in an environment where a teacher or staff member can provide structure and support. It makes the classroom come to life,” said Fulton High School Principal Seth Smith. “It’s extremely important for us to develop the right partnerships with businesses in our community, as they provide a level of expertise and experience that we just don’t have at the school.”

Work-based learning provides students with valuable networking opportunities, exposure to different industries, and a chance to build a strong foundation for their future careers. Overall, this experiential learning method equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the workforce.

“The return on investment is huge. It takes a company’s time and resources because we are paying our apprentices, and it takes time to plan it and do it well. It takes stakeholder feedback, it takes community buy-in, and it takes strong relationships to make it work well,” added Comer. “But it has such a ripple effect, from student to student in so many different parts of their lives. PJ’s experience led his brother, Tyree, to join us as well and he currently works for Muse Knoxville.”

Work-based learning benefits employers by providing them with a pool of skilled and knowledgeable potential employees. This hands-on experience allows employers to assess students’ capabilities firsthand, reducing recruitment costs and ensuring a better match between the candidate and the job requirements.

“Sometimes interns can have a romanticized idea of what certain fields are. Work-based learning gives them a chance to really dig in and learn from professionals in that field to decide if it is right for them,” said University of Tennessee Vice Chancellor Dr. Tyvi Small. “Employing interns benefits us in numerous ways. PJ’s engagement and questions allowed us to view our organization through a different lens.”

Employers interested in becoming involved with Knox County Schools’ 865 Academies can sign up here. Employers interested in starting their own internship program can utilize the Knoxville Chamber’s complimentary internship program consulting services by emailing [email protected].

High-school students seeking internships should connect with their 865 Academy Coach, and college students seeking internships can view the HireUp Knox internship board.