Why Does Work-Based Learning Matter?

Work-based learning (WBL) takes students beyond traditional assignments, by offering experiences that directly connect their education with real-world applications. From research in the field, “Work-based learning, has engaged interest in many countries around the globe for its potential to facilitate transitions from school to work, to ensure that training is aligned with labor market needs, to provide opportunities for the ongoing development of transferrable skills to meet the needs of the changing workplace, and to help students understand and adapt to the realities of the workplace.” (Falconer and Pettigrew, 2003; OECD, 2014; Hoffman, 2015). 

With KnoPro, students engage in projects that build valuable job skills and help them explore future career paths. Here’s why WBL is essential and how it benefits students participating in KnoPro.

Engage with Real-World Challenges

WBL keeps learning relevant, by connecting classroom concepts to real-world Challenges. Instead of passively absorbing information, students actively solve problems that matter. KnoPro encourages students to ask, “How does this apply to my life and future goals?” This shift boosts motivation and helps make education more meaningful.

For example, a project on sustainability might involve developing strategies to reduce waste or improve energy efficiency. This hands-on experience helps students see the broader impact of their efforts beyond the classroom, keeping them engaged and invested in the learning process.

Develop Essential Skills for the Future

KnoPro Challenges are about more than just academics; they help students sharpen critical skills for success in college, careers, and life. Through WBL, students develop collaboration, communication, and teamwork—skills essential in any workplace. Whether brainstorming ideas, coordinating with teammates, or sharing perspectives, students are preparing for real-world situations. Approximately 58% of NAF students who participated in our annual survey indicated that they participated in some form of work-based learning, with 78% of those who did participate indicating it helped them build career skills.

Students also gain experience with time management, project planning, and goal setting. By working on timelines and setting milestones, they learn to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines — sharpening skills and tactics that benefit them in KnoPro Challenges and beyond.

 Build Confidence through Meaningful Projects

When students take charge of a project, they build confidence in their abilities. Completing a complex Challenge through KnoPro not only provides a sense of accomplishment  but also prepares them to approach future goals with self-assurance. WBL encourages a growth mindset, helping students adapt when things don’t go as planned, try new strategies, and enhance their problem-solving abilities.

This growth mindset equips students to tackle challenges with a solutions-oriented approach. Over time, they develop resilience and a proactive attitude toward learning, which are invaluable in both academic and professional environments.

Gain Mentorship and Connect with Professionals

WBL with KnoPro introduces students to mentors and industry professionals who offer valuable insights and feedback. These connections provide a glimpse into real-world expectations and help students refine their skills. Whether interested in business, technology, or science, students gain access to expertise that deepens their understanding of what’s needed in their chosen field.

Through mentorship, students learn to set priorities, focus on goals, and meet industry standards. These relationships not only enhance the WBL experience but also offer connections that may open doors to future career opportunities.

Prepare for College and Career Success

WBL activities closely mirror how work is accomplished in industries like engineering, design, technology, and business. KnoPro provides students with the Future Ready Skills that colleges and employers highly value, such as communication, problem solving, and initiative and self-direction. Tackling layered tasks through WBL prepares students for the types of projects they will encounter in college or internships, setting them apart from their peers.

Including KnoPro Challenges in college applications also strengthens students’ portfolios. Admissions teams seek applicants who can demonstrate hands-on experience and the ability to apply what they’ve learned. By highlighting WBL achievements, students showcase their readiness to thrive in both academic and professional settings.

According to a recent annual survey, 71% of NAF students who participated in work-based learning indicated that it helped them explore their career aspirations. This is important because roughly 1/3 of students nationwide do not have an education or career plan after high school. Additionally, 84% of 600+ prior Alumni Survey respondents indicated that work-based learning experiences overwhelmingly helped them develop skills for ANY future career and 79% indicated that work-based learning experiences helped them identify a career or industry of interest to them by the time they graduated high school.

The Value of Work-Based Learning with KnoPro

Work-based learning transforms education by enabling students to apply knowledge in real-world settings. With KnoPro, students not only gain practical skills but also take control of their futures. WBL primes students to make an impact today and equips them with tools for tomorrow’s success.

Speaking of making an impact, our current Social Entrepreneurship Challenge with the Fleischer Scholars Foundation is running through February 23rd!

Do you dream of making a difference while building something extraordinary? In this Challenge, you’ll tackle a social issue—like homelessness, accessibility, or rainforest protection—by developing a new product, service, or business idea that creates real impact.

Learn more here: Social Entrepreneurship Challenge | KnoPro [powered by NAF]