Pedagogical Strategies for Work-Based Learning. IEE Working Paper No. 12.

Fourteen school-to-work programs characterized by strong work-based learning components and solid employer involvement were examined in a 3-year study to identify pedagogical factors associated with successful work-based learning programs. The main data collection activities were as follows: site visits to the 15 programs to interview faculty, staff, students, and employers and to observe any classroom-based links to the work-based learning components; 2 telephone surveys (a survey of employers participating in the programs and a survey of employers not participating in programs); and case studies of 5 of the programs that included observations and interviews with 26 student interns. The researchers used a task analysis framework that was designed to analyze the situated pedagogy of particular work contexts. The following pedagogical strategies were identified and analyzed: front-loaded instruction; on-the-job training; just-in-time instruction; back-loaded instruction; mutual self-instruction; laissez-faire instruction; observation; and mentoring. Among the pedagogical tactics used within each strategy were the following: lecturing; tours; modeling/demonstrating; dry runs; giving orders; helping out; coaching; critical feedback; testing and checking; storytelling; reminding; trial and error; and practice. The case studies emphasized the importance of educators enhancing students' learning opportunities at the workplace with connected activities and exercises back at school. (Contains 22 references.) (MN)