The data keeps rolling in to show that applied and work-based learning are extremely important to employers and students, but postsecondary institutions are not always providing opportunities for students to grow their skills in applied settings.
According to recent relevant research:
- 70.8 percent of surveyed college students and recent grads think that work-based learning should be a requirement of postsecondary education, and 61 percent are open to unpaid internships, although paid internships tend to increase students’ chances for full-time employment.
- 88 percent of employers think that college and universities should provide applied learning, but less than a quarter of employers perceive that recent college graduates come to them with applied skills. Most employers prefer job candidates who have completed an internship, field project or similar applied experience.
- According to a survey from McGraw-Hill Education, 58 percent of students want workforce preparation, but only 35 percent think college was effective at readying them for the workforce. In addition, 67 percent of students want more internships and work experience.
CTE on the secondary and postsecondary levels, with its focus on hands-on learning in a variety of settings, is key to building the skills employers and students need.
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