Outcomes-Driven Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning has been the foundation of the NAF Approach throughout our nearly 45-year history, but in the changing world of work, it’s time to make a shift.

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Centering Student Outcomes

Outcomes-Driven Work-Based Learning (ODWBL) is our new student-centered approach for measuring the success of hands-on learning through our Aspirations, Skills, and Connections framework. Our work-based learning activities include internships, career fairs, and hands-on workshops with industry professionals.

How We Measure Student Success

The focus of the NAF approach to work-based learning encompasses 3 key student-centered outcomes:

Aspirations

Having a sense of their professional direction helps students make more informed decisions about their next step after high school. Students identify career aspirations within our Career Pathways and map a plan to reach their goals.

Skills

Employees are looking for key transferable skills. At NAF, we call them Future Ready Skills. Students build on these skills through hands-on learning and have professionals provide feedback to validate their progress and future readiness.

Connections

Social capital is one of the most important areas students can develop. We aim to help students develop meaningful connections with professionals who can help them navigate their path forward.

Data-Driven Approach
to Outcomes-Driven Work-Based Learning

We have developed a suite of new tools, including the WBL Participation Tracker and Reflection Form, to provide our network with expanded data to track student progress, inform WBL planning, and engage Advisory Board members and partners. You can explore these tools in our Academy Support Hub.

Educators who have participated in pilots, have remarked, “This approach helps to take work-based learning to the next level and will enable your academy to provide meaningful experiences and prepare your students to be Future Ready.”

How We Measure Impact

Student Survey Field Guide

NAF conducts an annual student survey every year to get direct feedback on the NAF academy and work-based learning experience.

Check out the results

NAFTrack Certification

Our NAFTrack certification is our seal of college and career readiness achieved through student performance focused on outcomes-driven, work-based learning.

Learn more about NAFTrack