JOB SHADOWING & FIELD STUDIES
Job Shadowing (On-Site)
Job Shadowing (On-Site) is a method of short-term, school-coordinated career exploration in which the student is introduced to a particular job role or career by being paired, one-on-one, with an employee at the worksite. The student “shadows” (follows) the employee for a specified time to better understand and observe work expectations and requirements of a variety of job tasks. Job shadowing is less intensive than the other WBL methods and is usually the first form of worksite assignment given to a student. Prior to job shadowing, the student should receive formalized instruction about careers and the process of career choice, develop appropriate questions to ask, and know the expectations as related to school rules and guidelines for grooming, dress, and behavior in the workplace. On-Site Job Shadowing does not provide any form of course credit. A classroom speaker is not considered a job-shadowing experience.
Job Shadowing (Virtual)
Job Shadowing (Virtual) provides work-based learning opportunities for students everywhere in the state, especially in rural areas with limited business partner accessibility due to distance or lack of worksite locations to meet student needs. A virtual shadowing experience is assessed for components that constitute quality virtual shadowing, including but not limited to the following: virtual tour of worksite with content provided, the capability to conduct question/answer exchanges, the overall quality of the site’s features, and the length of the experience. As with all quality WBL experiences, some type of product reflection should be required from the student. Each virtual experience should include preparation, engagement, and reflection. Virtual shadowing site examples: MicroCareerBursts and VirtualShadow.org.
Structured Field Study:
A front-loaded experience with a purpose sponsored by a certified teacher providing opportunities for students to explore different workplaces. The field study is hosted by a representative at the worksite. During the field study, students observe, ask questions, and learn from the experience of being on an actual worksite. Students are well-prepared beforehand to ask questions about employment opportunities, qualifications of job roles, job descriptions, benefits associated with worksite employment, types of services provided, and general information about the place of employment and its mission. All field studies should be followed up with debriefing activities such as classroom discussion, reports, and follow-up letters to worksite hosting the experience.
