Iowa Clearinghouse for Work-Based Learning
Educating Iowa students for the knowledge economy requires connecting them to future careers through hands-on experiences designed by employers and educators. The Iowa Clearinghouse for Work-Based Learning is a virtual space where business partners can post work-based learning and career-connected opportunities for Iowa students to gain in-depth work experience and exploration, providing real-world skill development for students.
Connecting Students, Educators, and Business Partners
Business Partners
Businesses can positively impact Iowa’s efforts to better prepare students for the knowledge economy by posting engaging opportunities to the virtual opportunity board. Business owners will benefit from having students clear tasks they may not otherwise have time to complete and also have the opportunity to build more relationships within their communities. Partnering with Iowa Schools allows for a direct connection to their future talent pipeline.
Educators
Educators can use the opportunity board to select in-depth, work-based learning experiences posted by employers that connect with educators’ existing classroom curriculum. In a dynamic, digital economy, it’s crucial for teachers to help students better understand the relevance of what they are learning to plan for future careers. The Clearinghouse offers an accessible way to do that.
Students
Authentic, in-depth, work-based learning engages students because they see the workplace application of concepts more clearly while developing skills like innovation, communication, and teamwork. Work-based learning helps students explore career possibilities and discover what interests them and what doesn’t, preparing them to join the workforce or continue their education. By gaining a deeper understanding of jobs in a variety of industries, nonprofits, and government entities in Iowa, students will make a deeper connection with their state.
Work-Based Learning Success Stories
AEA Nike Missile Site Project
From former missile base to local AEA headquarters building – students at Griswold HS researched the historical path between these two functions.
Effective Restaurant Management
This project had students at DC-G digging into the question, “How do businesses foster collective efficacy to drive efficient restaurant management?”
Content Collection & Visual Design for Presentation Creation
This solo project entailed a student in the Spark Tank program building a slidedeck for the community programs director at Ottumwa CSD.
Are you a business interested in providing a project for students?
Our Collaborators
The Clearinghouse for Work-based Learning is a sole venture of the Iowa Department of Education in partnership with area education agencies, local school districts, community colleges, business and industry partners, and other community organizations.
Need more information?
Site Coordinator
For site support or getting started, contact Laura Williams at lwilliams@aealearningonline.org
