CAREER PREPARATION PARTNER

PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

Provide a project to a project-based learning class for students to complete under faculty guidance.

HOW IT WORKS

Employer

  1. Meets with educational institution to align on project design, student and faculty interaction, and timeline for completion.

  2. Volunteers approximately 6 hours over the course of a semester to interface with students and faculty, ideally at the beginning, midpoint, and completion of project

K-16 Collaborative

  1. Matches the project provider with a class.

  2. Works with faculty to ensure the project is embedded in curriculum and aligns with a learning outcome.

  3. Meets with employer to align on project design, student and faculty interaction, and timeline for completion.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The Bay Area K-16 Collaborative recommends that employers and educators implement, to the degree possible, the following work-based-learning best practices to ensure that project-based-learning experiences empower K-16 Collaborative students to explore STEM careers, develop valuable skills, and make meaningful contributions to real-world industry projects.

Clear Project Objectives and Expectations:

Employers:   Clearly define the objectives, scope, and expectations of the projects provided to students, ensuring they align with real-world industry needs and challenges.

Teachers and faculty: Work with employers to translate project objectives into clear learning outcomes and assessment criteria, ensuring students understand the purpose and expectations of the project.

Cultural Relevance and Inclusivity:

Employers:  Ensure that projects are culturally relevant and inclusive, reflecting the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of students from BIPOC communities.

Teachers and faculty: Foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and insights to the project.

Reflection and Assessment:

Employers: Encourage students to reflect on their project-based learning experiences and identify key takeaways, lessons learned, and areas for growth.

Teachers and faculty: Incorporate reflection activities into the project-based learning curriculum, such as journals, presentations, or group discussions, to help students process their experiences and apply their learning to future endeavors.

Mentorship and Guidance:

Employers: Assign mentors or project supervisors who can provide guidance, support, and feedback to students throughout the project-based learning experience.

Teachers and faculty:  Facilitate regular check-ins and meetings between students and their industry mentors, offering support and assistance as needed to ensure students stay on track and meet project goals.

Professional Development Opportunities:

Employers: Provide students with opportunities for professional development, such as workshops, training sessions, or networking events, to help them develop skills and competencies relevant to their future careers.

Teachers and faculty: Offer guidance and resources to help students leverage their project-based learning experiences for future career opportunities, such as resume building, job search strategies, and interview preparation.