This book describes and analyzes the current state of work-based learning. It begins with a review of the history of work-based learning and its place in policy-making around school reform, which establishes the theoretical and empirical basis for the rest of the book. Based on over five years of research on work-based learning in high school and community college programs across the country, it explores the potential for using work-based learning as part of a broad education reform strategy. There are no existing books that address the topic of work-based learning as directly and broadly, connecting theory to practice. The authors emphasize the importance of situated learning in understanding work-based learning and in creating engaging and educational experiences for youth.
