Workpaths! Connecting Education with Business

for Successful Work-Based Learning Activities at the Worksite

"How to Make it Happen" Guideline Tips
	Become familiar with the Six Career Pathways (see also: Career Pathways in Michigan) and refer to the pathways that apply within your business. More information is available in the Resources drop down menu above and on our Brochures page.
	Provide the school with the parameters of your activity: number of students you can accommodate, length of visit, etc. If need be, break a larger group into two smaller groups to facilitate good interaction.
	Contact the school ahead of time and ask for the teacher’s assistance in structuring the experience: key concepts to emphasize, the link to school curriculum, and students’ interests.
	Provide as diverse of an experience as is practical for your setting: group discussions, handouts or take-aways, in addition to the usual large group lecture-type settings.
	Make the experience as "hands on" as possible. Some examples – have students use as much equipment as practical and safe. Have students perform applicable functions such as using computers, answering phones, taking meeting minutes, etc.. Students learn by doing – not just by watching you.
	Provide as diverse a group of your employees as possible for the students to interact with.
	In addition to industry-specific areas you may want to emphasize, use this opportunity to talk about broader attributes you look for in all employees: punctuality, cooperation, teamwork, problem-solving, accountability and a positive attitude (21^st Century Skills). Also, please emphasize the importance of the National Career Readiness Certificate.
	Select employees from your company who will demonstrate positive attitudes, are good role models and are excited about the opportunity. Help your employees prepare for and structure the event.
	Review safety guidelines with students.
	Allow time at the end of the activity for questions.
	Design your event with the age of the students in mind (elementary, middle or high school age students).
	At the end of the session, you may want to ask for an evaluation of the experience from the student(s). We would appreciate if you share this information with us.
	For additional information, Contact Us!

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