By Lainey Stalnaker, Data Analytics Writer
Did you know there are real-world learning opportunities for students ranging in age, from kindergarten through 12th grade, and even post-grad? These opportunities can include internships, mentorships, structured field studies, job shadowing opportunities, part-time positions, work-study placements, and apprenticeships, along with other experiences that expose students to potential career paths and help them build the skills they will need upon entering the labor force.
South Carolina has emphasized the importance of hands-on learning opportunities for students across the state. During the 2023-2024 school year, K-12 students participated in a total of 143,160 work-based learning experiences.[1]
The most common experience was a structured field study, followed by on-site and virtual job shadowing, as shown in Figure 1. A structured field study is a group activity organized by a teacher and hosted by a worksite representative. This experience allows students to explore a worksite and learn about related employment opportunities and job qualifications. In comparison, job shadowing is a one-on-one experience in which a student is introduced to a particular job or career by being paired with an employee at a worksite and observing their job tasks and work expectations.[2]
During the month of February, DEW highlighted many of these real-world learning opportunities through its Job Shadowing Awareness Month initiative. Students participated in a combined 54,977 virtual and on-site job-shadowing experiences during the 2023-2024 school year, accounting for 38 percent of the total participation for these types of real-world learning opportunities.
Job shadowing is particularly impactful because of its accessibility. It’s one of the few work-based learning experiences that can be done virtually, which reduces typical barriers to participation, such as a lack of reliable transportation. Job shadowing also requires less time than other work-based learning experiences. This makes job shadowing opportunities relatively flexible, as students with a variety of schedules and commitments can participate. It also means that students can shadow professionals in different careers, introducing them to a wide range of job types.
South Carolina knows that preparing the next generation for the workforce is crucial. Work-based learning is an excellent way of giving students real-world experience and early exposure to the skills required by employers.
[2]https://ed.sc.gov/instruction/career-and-technical-education/career-guidance/work-based-learning/work-based-learning-guide/