Career-based learning experiences (CBLEs) connect classroom learning to real-world careers by directly involving employers and industry partners. Whether it’s a guest speaker, company tour, or hands-on experience, CBLEs help students explore career options and build the confidence and skills they need for life beyond high school.
Connecting CBLEs to Career Readiness
In Wisconsin, CBLEs are a key component of the Academic and Career Planning (ACP) process. ACP helps students set personal, academic, and career goals by identifying their interests, skills, and aspirations. Through CBLEs, students can explore different careers firsthand, assess whether a career is a good fit, and map out the education and training needed to achieve their goals.
Career-connected learning that includes CBLEs is one way to make education meaningful for students. That’s why every Wisconsin student is encouraged to participate in at least one CBLE every year as part of their ACP journey.
How CBLEs Are Delivered
CBLEs should be offered in two key ways:
- An optional Academic and Career Planning (ACP) activity that students can participate in.
- Embedded directly into academic instruction for all students.
When schools combine both approaches, they give students more chances to explore careers, make meaningful plans, and apply classroom learning in real-world ways.
CBLEs vs. Work-Based Learning
Work-based learning (WBL) is a specific type of CBLE that offers in-depth, supervised workplace experience — such as internships or Youth Apprenticeships. WBL opportunities meet additional criteria for time, structure, and alignment with academics that is outlined in Wisconsin’s Perkins V State Plan.
All WBLs are CBLEs, but not all CBLEs are WBLs. Learn more about WBLs and the required reporting criteria here.
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