Employers

The employer should select a designated work-based learning (WBL) supervisor to collaborate closely with the dual enrollment instructor to design a structured, engaging, and career-relevant course experience. This includes identifying which workplace tasks align with academic learning objectives and actively participating in planning meetings to ensure the seamless integration of classroom and hands-on learning. This employee should be enthusiastic about working with students, committed to mentorship, and skilled at providing both technical and professional guidance.

Employers and schools must develop a structured schedule that balances academic coursework with hands-on work experience, while also ensuring compliance with school policies and labor regulations. A key part of this collaboration involves coordinating with the course instructor to thoughtfully integrate work-based learning activities into the overall course timeline and reinforce key learning objectives. Together, partners should determine student work hours, define job responsibilities, and align workplace tasks with course content. In addition, employers must complete necessary administrative steps with school staff, such as securing work permits, liability agreements, and parental consent forms, to ensure a smooth and compliant experience for all parties.

A strong feedback loop between the employer, instructor, and high-school coordinator is critical to student success. If students struggle with attendance, engagement, or safety compliance, these concerns should be immediately addressed to ensure proper support and accountability. Likewise, when students excel in specific tasks, employers should communicate their strengths and progress to partners, potentially opening doors for internships, apprenticeships, or post-program employment opportunities. Regular check-ins, progress reports, and joint meetings help ensure that students are meeting both academic and workplace expectations while allowing for ongoing improvements to the program.

Students should be assessed on job-related competencies identified during the planning phase, ensuring their performance in the workplace contributes to their final grade in the dual enrollment course. These assessments could measure technical skills, professionalism, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability, providing a clear framework for evaluation. Additionally, gathering feedback from students allows them to reflect on their experiences, discuss challenges, and suggest improvements to enhance the course for future participants.