About the project
The impact of COVID-19 on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) has been immense. However, it is crucial to ensure that VET learners still have access to work-based learning opportunities, as the pandemic’s economic consequences may cause them to graduate late or miss out on necessary training. By maximizing work-based learning opportunities, VET learners can remain connected to the labor market and reduce the inequalities that have arisen during the pandemic.
To maintain the appeal and effectiveness of work-based learning programs, innovative and prompt adjustments are necessary, such as creating virtual WBL schemes that offer excellent learning experiences for learners and added value for participating employers. The eWBL@HoME project is addressing this challenge by providing a framework that can transform traditional VET programs into high-quality virtual work-based learning experiences.
The eWBL@HoME project intend to
1
Revamp work-based learning by providing a robust framework for converting traditional VET programs into high-quality virtual work-based learning experiences
2
Increase the visibility and appeal of virtual work-based learning by creating a standardized, high-quality framework.
3
Encourage employers to value work-based learning and offer virtual placements to VET learners.
4
Enhance learning opportunities for VET learners by facilitating accelerated performance within virtual work-based learning placements, ensuring that practical training is completed without compromising the learning experience
5
Upskill teachers, mentors, and tutors to provide support for virtual work-based learning at all stages, from design to implementation and completion of virtual placements.
Scheme of Project Result
PR1
Bringing e-WBL@Home: A Framework for Virtual Work-Based Learning
The implementation of the e-WBL Framework 1.0 for designing and delivering virtual work-based learning is expected to enhance the quality of WBL delivery and create better employment prospects for learners. The framework aims to make VET a preferred option in the e-learning environment, resulting in a transnational impact since the lead partner, EVBB, is a significant VET umbrella organization present in all EU countries. The final e-WBL Framework 1.0 will serve as a methodology and guideline for the development and implementation of tailored and successful work-based learning programs in remote work environments. It will provide a solid foundation for the continuity and improvement of WBL in the new business structure.
PR2
Preparation of the Employers Package for Virtual Work-Based Learning.
The Osnabruck Agenda aims to improve the image of VET and its relevance to market needs by increasing employer engagement and offering more opportunities for virtual work-based learning placements. This will be achieved by re-evaluating work-based learning placements and actively reaching out to employers, as the virtual variation of WBL will be available to everyone, regardless of location or physical restrictions. Additionally, all project materials, including examples, testimonials, and relevant resources, will be available online in a single reference point, acting as a blog and reference for employers interested in utilizing virtual work-based learning in their working environments. This approach will increase the number of placements available and encourage more employers to participate in WBL programs, resulting in higher engagement and better outcomes for learners.
PR3
Paving the ground for Learners. An e-wbl performance kit for Learners.
The VET Learners aspect of the project aims to increase the accessibility of work-based learning for disadvantaged groups and learners living in rural areas with limited transportation options. As a result, there is likely to be a higher level of interest in virtual work-based learning placements, and learners will be educated on the expectations and requirements of host organizations. These efforts will increase the appeal of work-based learning and contribute to the vision of VET becoming the top choice for learners. Furthermore, facilitating access to related services and supporting materials will create more opportunities for employability.
PR4
Creating OER to support e-WBL for VET Teachers / Trainers and Mentors.
The e-WBL@HoME project aims to enhance the performance of teachers and VET staff in engaging employers to offer virtual WBL placements, and in supporting VET learners to enter and complete virtual WBL programs. This is expected to make virtual WBL more appealing and a viable option in the post-covid era, and to create new paths to employment through practical training, which has been disrupted by the pandemic. To support this, the final OER will be available on the Project Learning platform and provide technical support before, during and after the training program for at least 5 years after the project’s completion.
