Module 4 — Subtopic 3
Embedding authentic workplace exposure and industry co-assessment to build job-ready youth: competence + work habits + employability skills — aligned to MC-ATERA.
Integrated Notes (Single Block)
Work-Based Learning (WBL) is a structured learning experience that occurs in real or simulated workplaces. For youth, WBL accelerates employability because it connects training to real standards, real tools, real routines, and real expectations. In MC-ATERA, WBL is not “optional”; it is a core pillar that strengthens CBET by enabling learners to demonstrate competence through authentic performance evidence. Effective youth WBL requires clear roles (institution + industry), safety compliance, planned tasks, mentor coaching, and an evidence system (logbook/portfolio/video) that supports assessment and job placement.
- Differentiate key WBL models and when to use each
- Design WBL tasks aligned to competencies (C1–C6)
- Define industry roles: co-coach, co-assessor, host employer
- Build an employability skill framework + evidence strategy
- Create a WBL Blueprint (model, duration, tasks, evidence)
- Create an Employability Competency Map (habits + soft skills)
- Produce a WBL Evidence Pack (logbook + mentor checklist + rubric)
1) WBL Models (Which Model Fits Youth?)
Choose a WBL model based on learner readiness, industry capacity, and safety requirements. WBL can range from short exposure to full apprenticeship pathways.
- Short visits (1–3 days) to observe work routines
- Best for school leavers & early-stage learners
- Focus: career awareness + workplace expectations
- Structured placement (4–12 weeks typical)
- Best for learners who completed foundational competencies
- Focus: perform tasks under supervision + evidence
- Longer pathway combining training + paid work
- Best for industry partners with strong mentoring capacity
- Focus: mastery + work identity + retention
- Training at workplace as part of program cycles
- Best for modular CBET with rotating workplace blocks
- Focus: repeated practice in authentic conditions
- Real industry project delivered in campus lab/workshop
- Best when workplace access is limited
- Focus: real standards + client feedback
- Campus-based simulated workplace (safe, controlled)
- Best for at-risk youth / low readiness / high hazard
- Focus: routines, safety, basic employability habits
2) Designing WBL Tasks (Aligning to Competencies)
WBL must not become “general labour” or “shadowing only”. It needs structured tasks aligned to competency outcomes, with clear standards, evidence, and feedback.
- Task title: action-focused (e.g., “Perform equipment inspection”)
- Linked competency: C1–C6 (technical) + E1–E6 (employability)
- Standard: quality thresholds, SOP, tolerances, time
- Conditions: tools, PPE, supervision level
- Evidence: checklist + photo/video + product + mentor note
- Feedback: rubric criteria + coaching notes
- Level 1 (Observe): watch + explain steps (safe exposure)
- Level 2 (Assist): help with parts of task under close supervision
- Level 3 (Perform): complete task with standard supervision
- Level 4 (Independence): complete task independently (summative evidence)
- Level 5 (Improve): troubleshoot, improve quality, reflect
3) Employability Skills (What Employers Expect from Youth)
Employability is not only soft skills. It includes work habits, professional identity, and the ability to learn on the job. Build employability as a competency map, not a one-off workshop.
- Punctuality & attendance
- Safety discipline
- Tool care & housekeeping (5S)
- Task completion & responsibility
- Following instructions & asking questions
- Reporting issues early
- Working with supervisors and peers
- Conflict management basics
- Basic troubleshooting
- Learning from feedback
- Reflecting and improving
- Adaptability to new tools/tech
4) Industry Partnership Roles (Co-Coach & Co-Assessor)
For youth, industry partners are key to building realism and credibility. Define roles clearly to avoid confusion, and ensure WBL quality and safety.
| Role | Industry / Workplace | Training Provider | Key Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Host Employer | Provides placement, tasks, safety supervision | Ensures alignment to curriculum and readiness | Site log + safety record |
| Mentor / Supervisor | Coaches learners daily, signs logbook | Prepares mentor guide + criteria | Mentor checklist |
| Co-Assessor | Validates performance against workplace standards | Provides rubric + moderation process | Rubric + observation |
| Industry Advisor | Advises on skills demand & standards updates | Updates competency map and tasks | Meeting notes |
Primary Output — WBL & Employability Blueprint (Audit-Ready Pack)
This is the deliverable for Subtopic 3. It includes (1) a WBL blueprint, (2) employability competency map, and (3) an evidence pack (logbook + mentor checklist + rubric) aligned to youth pathways.
- WBL model: placement / OJT / apprenticeship / project-based
- Duration: weeks + hours + rotation schedule
- Task list: tasks linked to C1–C6 competencies
- Supervision plan: Level 1–5 (observe → independent)
- Safety plan: PPE, hazard checklist, induction
- E1: Attendance & punctuality
- E2: Safety discipline & compliance
- E3: Communication & teamwork
- E4: Work ethics & responsibility
- E5: Problem solving & learning mindset
- E6: Professional identity & customer focus
- Digital/print logbook (daily tasks + reflections)
- Mentor checklist (weekly observation)
- Rubric (performance + employability)
- Portfolio evidence (photos/videos/products)
- Shows WBL pipeline and job transition services
- Clarifies evidence capture points
- Suitable for stakeholder briefing
Quality Safeguards (Youth WBL Risk Controls)
Youth WBL can fail if safety, exploitation risk, or unclear supervision occurs. Use safeguards to protect learners and partners.