1. The Massachusetts Work-Based Learning Plan An Introduction for Youth Employment Program Participants

2. What is the Work-Based Learning Plan? The Work-Based Learning Plan is a tool used in summer jobs, internship and other work experience programs. It is a four-page document (or four computer screens if you use the online version) that includes: A job description; A list of the skills that are important in your job or internship; A performance evaluation with ratings, goals and comments. The Work-Based Learning Plan is a diagnostic, goal-setting and evaluation tool.

3. Why use the WBLP? There are three main benefits to using the WBLP… ---  There are three main benefits to using the WBLP… ---  It is used by over ten thousand people each year in summer jobs programs, internship programs, and other work experiences across Massachusetts.

4. Three benefits to using the WBLP… Knowing What is Expected: The Work-Based Learning Plan (WBLP) defines your job description and lists that skills that you will be evaluated on. It helps you to know what is expected and to be successful in your work.

5. Three benefits to using the WBLP… Knowing your Skills: The Work-Based Learning Plan (WBLP) lists the skills that are important in your job or internship. In the future, you can talk about these skills when you are writing resumes, interviewing for jobs or applying to colleges.

6. Three benefits to using the WBLP… Opening up Conversations: The Work-Based Learning Plan helps to open up conversations between you and your supervisor or program coordinator about the skills you are using, goals, the workplace environment, future career opportunities, and more. It helps you to get the most out of your job or internship.

7. Sections of the WBLP

8. Job Description The job description is a brief introduction to the job. –Where you will be working; –What your job includes; –Who you work with (customers, departments); –How and why the work fits into the goals of the company or organization. The job description is a brief introduction to the job. –Where you will be working; –What your job includes; –Who you work with (customers, departments); –How and why the work fits into the goals of the company or organization.

9. Foundation Skills The Foundation Skills are the basic skills important in every job. Read the Foundation Skills, discuss, and ask any questions during your orientation. Any time you have a question, ask! The Foundation Skills are the basic skills important in every job. Read the Foundation Skills, discuss, and ask any questions during your orientation. Any time you have a question, ask!

10. Workplace and Career Specific Skills The Workplace and Career Specific Skills are specific skills related to your work experience.

11. Workplace and Career Specific Skills The WBLP can list up to seven skills in this section, or focus on just a few. The skill name goes in the first column of the grid (one or two words, generally) and a brief description in the second column.

12. Performance Review The Performance Review is based on all the skills in the WBLP, including the Foundation Skills and the Workplace and Career Specific Skills. You are reviewed at least twice during the job or internship.

13. Performance Review Scale Note that a “middle of the scale” rating (such as a “3” in this scale) is a good rating in workplace evaluations. Workplace evaluations are not like grades in school. School grades are generally assigned at the end of a course, while workplace evaluation is an ongoing process, focusing on ongoing improvement. Even if you are in a short-term summer job or internship, the same concept applies…. Throughout your career you will be working on building career skills. The performance review scale ranges from 1 to 5. The middle of the scale is “3 – Competent.”

14. Performance Review Scale Definitions Ratings of “1 – Performance Improvement Plan Needed” are used when it is important to formally talk through issues and make a plan for improvement. Ratings of “2 – Needs Development” are used when have not yet fully demonstrated the skill and when you need to focus more on development of that skill area. Ratings of “3 – Competent” indicate that you are demonstrating this skill. Ratings of “4 – Proficient” and “5 – Advanced” are used when you have shown initiative in developing your own skills and when your work has made a specific contribution to the work of your department or organization.

15. What You Can Do Read and discuss the job description, foundation skills and workplace and career specific skills. Participate in the performance review by thinking about what skills you are using and how you have done so far in your work experience. Think about any goals you might want to set. [Some questions to help you self- assess the skills are included in this presentation.] Make the most of the experiences provided to you by asking questions, showing motivation and initiative, accepting direction and constructive feedback, working hard and showing enthusiasm for the work experience. In the future, think about these skills when you are writing resumes, interviewing for jobs and applying to colleges.

16. Summary of Steps in Using the WBLP 3.) You can sign up for a username and password to use the online WBLP at masswbl.org. Sign up for an “Intern” account. 4.) READ and DISCUSS the job description, list of foundation skills, and list of career and workplace specific skills and tasks. You will discuss these in a group orientation or in a one-on-one orientation 5.) You will have a first review early in the work experience. Your supervisor or coordinator will provide feedback and set goals. You can participate in this by helping to self-assess your own work and thinking about goals. 6.) You will have a second review near the end of a summer job or internship. (For ongoing placements, the timing of a second review will vary.) 1.) A program coordinator or supervisor (or sometimes the intern) will write a job description and a list of skills/tasks. 2.) If your program is using the online version of the WBLP screens, the job description and list of skills/tasks will be entered, along with some basic placement information, in the online screens.

17. What Skills Will You Focus On? Work Experience

18. Foundation Skills Speaking Workplace Appearance Accepting Direction and Constructive Criticism Motivation and Taking Initiative Understanding Workplace Policy, Culture and Safety Attendance and Punctuality Interacting with Co-workers Listening COMMUNICATION PROFESSIONALISM

19. Workplace and Career Specific Skills Workplace and Career Specific

20. Foundation Skills

21. Attendance and Punctuality Showing up in timely manner prepared for work. Providing sufficient notice if unable to report for work.

22. Attendance and Punctuality Showing up in timely manner prepared for work. Providing sufficient notice if unable to report for work. Have you been able to maintain good attendance for work? Have there been any challenges about missing days of work or being late for work? If yes, how have you addressed those challenges? Have you shown extra initiative – such as making an effort to learn about the attendance policy at your organization or making an effort to pay attention to the needs of co-workers when scheduling breaks or planning days off? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

23. Workplace Appearance Dressing appropriately for position and duties. Practicing personal hygiene appropriate for position and duties.

24. Workplace Appearance Dressing appropriately for position and duties. Practicing personal hygiene appropriate for position and duties. Do you have a good sense of what clothing is most appropriate for your position? Can you explain any safety considerations in dressing for your position (such as type of shoes or clothes needed for outdoor work or gloves or goggles needed for the work)? Can you describe what other people wear in your workplace? Can you describe how you have chosen clothes, accessories, shoes, etc. to be appropriate for your workplace? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

25. Accepting Direction and Constructive Criticism Accepting direction and feedback with positive attitude through appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Displaying willingness to work in a cooperative manner.

26. Accepting Direction and Constructive Criticism Accepting direction and feedback with positive attitude through appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Displaying willingness to work in a cooperative manner. When you receive directions or instructions from a supervisor or co-worker, do you do any of these positive things? * Ask questions to clarify * Repeat back what you were told * Smile, nod or other positive body language * Maintain eye contact * Make a suggestion about how you can do that task Can you describe a situation in which you received constructive feedback to improve something you were doing? If yes, can you describe one or more positive things you did to react to the feedback? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

27. Motivation and Taking Initiative Participating fully in a task or project from initiation to completion. Initiating interaction with supervisor for next task or project upon successful completion of previous one.

28. Motivation and Taking Initiative Participating fully in task or project from initiation to completion. Initiating interaction with supervisor for next task or project upon successful completion of previous one. Can you describe a typical task or project that you have worked on recently? What was your role? Did the task or project go smoothly? Did the task or project get finished on-time? Can you describe one or more situations in which you showed motivation and initiative in starting and completing a task or project? (This could be a large project or a routine task.) Can you describe one or more situations in which you showed motivation and initiative by asking a supervisor for additional tasks or projects? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

29. Understanding Workplace Culture, Policy and Safety Demonstrating understanding of workplace culture and policy. Complying with health and safety rules for the specific workplace. Respecting confidentiality and exhibiting understanding of workplace ethics.

30. Understanding Workplace Culture, Policy and Safety Demonstrating understanding of workplace culture and policy. Complying with health and safety rules for the specific workplace. Respecting confidentiality and exhibiting understanding of workplace ethics. Can you describe one or more conversations you have had to learn more about the culture of the workplace, workplace policies, workplace ethics, or workplace safety? Can you describe one or more things you have read (print or online) to learn more about the workplace? Can you describe one or more “good practices” you follow in order to observe workplace safety, ethics or confidentiality guidelines? Have you faced any challenges in following workplace safety guidelines? If yes, how have you addressed these challenges? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

31. Speaking Speaking clearly. Using language appropriate to the environment, both in person and on phone.

32. Speaking Speaking clearly. Using language appropriate to the environment, both in person and on phone. Can you describe one or more things that you have noticed about communication in this workplace? Is it different from other settings, such as school or home, where you spend time? Can you describe one way that your communication skills have changed or improved because of this work experience? Have you had any challenges related to communication in this workplace? If yes, what have you done to address these challenges? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

33. Listening Listening attentively. Making and maintaining eye contact appropriate to the workplace culture. Confirming understanding.

34. Listening Listening attentively. Making and maintaining eye contact appropriate to the workplace culture. Confirming understanding. Are you comfortable with the way information and instructions are communicated to you in this workplace? Can you describe one or more things you have done to strengthen listening and communication skills as a result of this work experience? Have you had any challenges related to communication in this workplace? If yes, what have you done to address these challenges? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

35. Interacting with Co-Workers Relating positively with co-workers. Working productively with individuals and in teams. Respecting racial and cultural diversity.

36. Interacting with Co-Workers Relating positively with co-workers. Working productively with individuals and in teams. Respecting racial and cultural diversity. 1.Can you think of a situation in your workplace in which you worked productively with a team or with another person to accomplish a task? 2.Can you describe two or more suggestions for interacting well with others in your workplace? 3.Do you convey a positive attitude through words, tone of voice, and body language? 4.Can you think of examples where you have applied interpersonal skills to calming an upset person, clarifying something that was confusing, or solving a problem? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

37. Workplace and Career Specific Skills

38. Project Management Definition: A systematic approach to planning and managing an individual or group project, including setting goals, planning, keeping progress on track and evaluating the results of the project. May include formal and informal tools and approaches, including timelines, budgets, checklists, planning meetings and more.

39. Project Management Definition: A systematic approach to planning and managing an individual or group project, including setting goals, planning, keeping progress on track and evaluating the results of the project. May include formal and informal tools and approaches, including timelines, budgets, checklists, planning meetings and more. 1. Can y ou can describe the project, describe your role, and describe the steps involved in the project? 2.Can you list some formal or informal tools or methods that you used to manage the work on the project? 3.Did you work step-by-step to define goals and establish a plan before starting project work? 4. If problems or issues arose, did you work (with a supervisor or team members or on your own) to find solutions? 5. Did you (and any team members) work steadily throughout the time available to complete the project? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

40. Time Management Definition: Establishing a healthy, comfortable and productive approach to using time. Time management includes: (a) thoughtfully and systematically deciding what tasks to do in what timeframe; (b) maintaining a steady, safe and comfortable pace of work; and (c) developing habits and approaches that lead to a comfortable pace of life (i.e., not rushing, being late or missing deadlines).

41. Time Management Definition: Establishing a healthy, comfortable and productive approach to using time. Time management includes: (a) thoughtfully and systematically deciding what tasks to do in what timeframe; (b) maintaining a steady, safe and comfortable pace of work; and (c) developing habits and approaches that lead to an overall comfortable pace of life (i.e., not rushing, being late or missing deadlines). 1. Can you describe one situation in which you had to choose tasks that fit the time and resources available? (Example: making choices based on your energy level, weather, availability of tools or equipment, availability of co-workers or supervisor) 2. Do you set a work pace that is neither too fast nor slow? 3. Do you take break as scheduled in order to maintain safety and productivity as well as your own well-being? 4. Have you developed systems for managing your time? 5. Have you had any challenges related to managing your time? If yes, what strategies are you trying to address these challenges? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

42. Leadership Definition: Leading, motivating, directing and mentoring others to support work on workplace projects, classroom activities and community programs.

43. Leadership Definition: Leading, motivating, directing and mentoring others to support work on workplace projects, classroom activities and community programs. 1. Can you describe two or more things you have learned about leadership in this work experience? 2. Can you describe two or more strengths that you have as a leader? 3. Can you share with others at least one tip about becoming a stronger leader? 4. Can you describe an event or project during this work experience in which you acted in a formal or informal leadership role? 5. Can you think of at least one way that your work has helped other people to achieve more or has helped a project to succeed? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

44. Interpersonal Skills and Customer Service Definition: The ability to communicate a positive attitude, empathy, energy and helpfulness to customers or co-workers and to provide the assistance customers or co-workers need. Customer service refers not only to work with “external” customers, such as customers in a retail store or visitors to a zoo or park, but also with “internal” customers such as co-workers and managers who depend on your work. “Interacting with others” or “Interpersonal skills” are broader terms that include many workplace roles – employee, manager, teacher, instructor, mentor, etc.

45. Interpersonal Skills and Customer Service Definition: The ability to communicate a positive attitude, empathy, energy and helpfulness to customers or co- workers and to provide the assistance customers or co- workers need. 1.Can you think of examples where you have applied interpersonal skills to calming an upset person, clarifying something that was confusing, or solving a problem? 2.Have you noticed that people you work with (co-workers, customers, clients, or students) seem satisfied after working or talking with you? 3.Do the people the you work with (co-workers, clients, customers or students) want to come back to you for more assistance? 4.Do you feel that you have done your best to learn about customers’ needs and about the products or services your organization provides? 5. Can you describe who the customers of the organization are and what they generally want and need? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

46. Computer Technology Definition: (A) the ability to learn, communicate effectively, collaborate, and problem solve about computer-technology-related tasks and projects; and (B) the ability to use technology to support your work; and/or (C) the ability to support others in the use of technology.

47. Computer Technology Definition: (A) the ability to learn, communicate effectively, collaborate, and problem solve about computer- technology-related tasks and projects; and (B) the ability to use technology to support your work; and/or (C) the ability to support others in the use of technology. 1.Can you describe two or more ways that you enjoy learning new computer-related skills (such as watching while another person demonstrates the skill, reading books, reading help screens, searching online forums, experimenting with software, or other methods)? 2.Can you describe at least one situation in which you used logical thinking or problem solving skills to solve a computer technology challenge? 3.When you demonstrate, teach or explain computer-related information to other people, do you feel that they are comfortable with your presentation? 4.Are you comfortable working on computer-related tasks with people who have a variety of backgrounds, learning styles, teaching styles, and computer experience? 5.Can you describe at least two things you have learned recently about how to use technology? 6.(If applicable:) Can you describe at least one thing you have learned recently about using technology to organize and present information? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

48. Problem Solving Definition: Being alert to possible problems or issues in the work; Systematically analyzing the situation to identify when and/or why the issue is occurring; Working with supervisors or co-workers to identify possible solutions; Taking agreed-on steps to address the problem.

49. Problem Solving Definition: Being alert to possible problems or issues in the work; Systematically analyzing the situation to identify when and/or why the issue is occurring; Working with supervisors or co- workers to identify possible solutions; Taking agreed-on steps to address the problem. 1.Can you describe at least one situation in which you used logical thinking or problem solving skills to resolve a challenge or problem? 2. Can you describe the steps you take when approaching a problem? 3. Can you describe the approach your organization or department takes to encourage staff to identify and solve problems? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

50. Active Learning Definition: Cultivating a practice of active learning by attending workshops, attending meetings when possible, listening, reading (online or printed materials), observing others in the workplace, and asking questions.

51. Active Learning Definition: Cultivating a practice of active learning by attending workshops, attending meetings when possible, listening, reading (online or printed materials), observing others in the workplace, and asking questions. 1.On the job, can you answer basic questions from customers or co- workers about the work, products, services or programs of your organization? 2. Does the quality of your work show that you have learned and/or mastered the technical skills needed to do your job? 3. Can you always describe (to a supervisor, teacher or friend) AT LEAST ONE THING that you are learning or have recently learned? Evaluation ~ Questions to Ask:

52. Where to Look for More Skill Examples Read the Skills Pages Youth Employment Blog at: http:// skillspages.com/blog The blog has articles about workplace skills, including computer technology skills, problem solving, time management, customer service, active learning, workplace health and safety and other common workplace skills. Read the Skills Pages Youth Employment Blog at: http:// skillspages.com/blog The blog has articles about workplace skills, including computer technology skills, problem solving, time management, customer service, active learning, workplace health and safety and other common workplace skills.

53. Online WBL Database Instructions

54. Using the Online WBL Database The Online WBL Database is found at: https:// masswbl.org This database is used by programs throughout Massachusetts to write and manage Work-Based Learning Plans. It also contains basic placement information to help manage summer jobs programs, internship programs and other youth employment programs. It is a secure, password-protected database. Individual placement information is only visible to staff in your program, but summary information about skills and job descriptions can be shared with other programs. You can register for an account. Your username will be your email address and you will be given a password (automatically emailed to you). You, your supervisor, and your program coordinator or teacher can share information by listing each other’s username/email in the Work-Based Learning Plan screen.

55. Go to https:// masswbl.org to register for a username and password

56. In the “Create an Account” section of the page, choose INTERN ACCOUNT. Click CONTINUE.

57. Maria Brown In the “Create Account” screen you can fill in your information. Fill in your NAME, EMAIL ADDRESS, and select your REGION. Ask your supervisor or coordinator what region you are in. Click the button to CREATE ACCOUNT. A password will be emailed to you. From now on, you can sign in at https:// masswbl.org with your username (which is your email address) and password.

58. The WBLP includes four screens: First, you or a program coordinator will fill in the WBLP Heading/Placement Information screen. This screen has the names of the participant (you), your supervisor, your program coordinator and/or teacher, and some basic details about your job or internship. Then you will complete: - The job description screen. - The workplace and career specific skills. - The performance review.

59. SPECIAL NOTE: IF YOU ARE FILLING IN THE PLACEMENT INFORMATION: For each person who should have access to viewing or working on this participant’s WBLP, list the email address (which is also the person’s username). In the last column of this section, you can specify “Read/Write” or “Read/Only” or “No Access” access for each person.

60. After the placement information is complete, these are the screens that make up the WBLP: - The job description screen. - The workplace and career specific skills. - The performance review.