Work-Based Learning

The PWR of Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning encompasses a variety of strategies to offer learners experiential opportunities to explore potential careers. Each of these strategies rely on developing industry relationships and learning opportunities outside of the classroom:

“Learning ABOUT Work” strategies focus on exposing learners to a variety of industries
“Learning THROUGH Work” engages learners in partnerships with industry representatives for hands-on learning
"Learning AT Work” prepares learners for specific career pathways

Work-Based Learning Continuum and Readiness Assessment

Colorado's Work-based Learning Continuum. View full alt text at http://www.cde.state.co.us/concurrentenrollment/workbasedlearningcontinuum-alt

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Quick Links:

WBL Continuum and
Assessment Guide

New! WBL Quality Definitions

WBL Funding Matrix

CO Workforce Development Council
WBL Resources

My Colorado Journey
(Free Career
Exploration Platform)

Work-Based Learning Definitions and Quality Expectations

In 2022, the Office of the Future of Work (OFOW) in the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) developed quality expectations for the Colorado Work-Based Learning (WBL) Continuum.

The WBL Quality Expectations are organized according to the three broad categories of WBL activities in the WBL Continuum: Learning ABOUT Work, Learning THROUGH Work, and Learning AT Work. Each activity is defined, along with information on how expectations could be demonstrated. The state does not assess WBL expectations; rather, this is to be used as a self-assessment tool for schools, intermediaries, and employers.

Access here: WBL Quality Expectations

Learning About Work Resources

Learning Through Work Resources

Learning At Work Resources

Other Resources

Industry Partnership Strategies

Developing Pathways

Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC) Career Pathways Resources

WBL Resources

WBL Examples

Intermediary WBL Program Resources

Adams County Education Consortium
Durango’s Business and Education Connection
Colorado Spring’s Pikes Peak Business and Education Alliance
Southwest Colorado Education Collaborative
Larimer and Weld Counties' NoCo Inspire

Legal Resources

Additional PWR Programs that support WBL:

Career Development Incentive Program (CDIP) offers financial incentives to public school for offering workplace training programs
Innovative Learning Opportunities Program (ILOP) allows schools to count part-time students for full-time funding if they are engaged in work-based learning activities
Individual Career and Academic Planning (ICAP) offers a framework for career exploration and planning
Pathways in Technology Early College High Schools (P-TECH) creates 9th-14th grade career preparation pathways in partnership with a local business