Catalyzing Momentum and Clarity Around Career-connected Learning

In recent years, when hearing the phrase “career-connected learning” many things might have come to mind — with different interpretations of what it entails ranging from work-based learning and industry certifications to dual enrollment programs, internships, and career and technical education.

While these can all be elements of career-connected learning, they do not convey the full depth of the field or its potential for learners. A fractured historical view has led to misunderstandings about who it’s for and what it can accomplish. For instance, one misconception about career-connected learning is that it's only for students not headed to college — but in reality, it benefits all students by providing practical skills and insights into various industries and can streamline the selection of a field of study if a student pursues a degree or certificate. 

Another common misconception is that career-connected learning limits students to specific job tracks when it offers broad foundational skills and exposure to numerous potential career pathways, which enhances a student’s adaptability to a rapidly changing job market.

However, with increased federal and state-level funding to expand programs, career-connected learning has seen a growing sense of momentum. As a result — a deeper understanding of its benefits and applications has emerged, providing greater clarity on the topic overall.

Catalyze recently hosted a workshop at SXSW EDU focused on mapping a purposeful career-connected learning ecosystem, which attracted more than 80 attendees — offering an opportunity to gain further insights into how practitioners and educators currently understand this nuanced topic. 

When asked, 95% of attendees said that career-connected learning applies to all learners and educators to contextualize, motivate and accelerate learning. Participants also indicated that career-connected learning is for everyone, regardless of age, ability level or ultimate career pathway, and is an essential component of a comprehensive education. 

Attendees also recognized that focusing on building agency is crucial to enable learners to navigate multiple education and career pathways more easily. 

With a focus on building agency, career-connected learning is a catalyst that can prepare learners to thrive in the modern world of work — first, by bridging the gap between student interest and industry need, and second, by introducing young people to fulfilling pathways that connect passion to career success. Career-connected learning also helps students to recognize and foster a greater sense of purpose in their lives — something that organizations like nXU, a Catalyze grantee, center in their work.

As interest in career-connected learning grows, so does the availability of research and data that illustrates the effectiveness of these evidence-based programs. According to a recent poll from Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation, only 29% of Gen Z learners believe their school is preparing them for the workplace, and only about 50% of middle and high school students say they’re learning skills relevant to the jobs they want. 

Compare that to the 70% of learners in Catalyze-supported programs who feel their experiences have enabled them to pursue their career goals, and the positive impact of career-connected learning is clear. 

It is also critical that equity is at the forefront of this work to truly ensure that all students — especially those from historically underserved and marginalized communities — have access to the life-changing career-connected learning experiences that lead to economic opportunity. 

As one of the nation’s largest communities of practice focused on career-connected learning, Catalyze upholds this ideal and serves as an innovation engine to move the field forward. Engage with us on LinkedIn and our blog for more insights and stories from our community.