Job Shadowing

Job shadowing is a work-based learning experience that allows students to follow an employee, observe and ask questions about a particular career and/or industry. It can also be described as an in-depth “field trip”.

Length of job shadowing – It typically lasts a couple of hours. However, it can be scheduled for a half or whole day on an individual basis or for a group of students or a class. Some job shadowing programs are highly structured and serve as a component of the curriculum where students usually rotate between various departments.

Student benefits:

ü Excellent opportunity to observe real-world work situations and make reality-based career choices before committing to a program of training

ü Increased motivation to expand career goals

ü Improved academic motivation through awareness of the relationships between their educational experiences and their occupational choices

ü Enhanced interpersonal skills and workplace conduct

Student responsibilities:

ü Apply for job shadowing placements (Visit career/job center, apply directly to employers)

ü Confirm appointments

ü Prepare questions to employee (Informational interviewing)

ü Read about the organization and the career observed

ü Conduct him/herself in a professional manner (Promptness, appropriate attire, body language, good manners)

ü Follow all safety and security policies and procedures of employer

ü Follow up with a thank-you letter

ü Submit all required documentation

ü Reflect upon the experience

Educator benefits:

ü Increased student motivation

ü Enhanced student career exploration and development

ü Improved contacts with business and industry

Educator responsibilities:

ü Encourage students to participate in job shadowing and refer to appropriate resources.

When the whole class is involved in an organized job shadowing activity, the educator is expected to:

ü Identify interested students

ü Adjust class schedules when necessary

ü Conduct preparation and follow-up activities

ü Collect all necessary documentation

ü Provide supervision

ü Follow all workplace safety and security policies and procedures

ü Complete a Teacher Evaluation Form

Employer benefits:

ü A better prepared workforce as students become aware of the requirements of professions and industries and the emerging trends

ü Improved visibility in the community

ü Enhanced partnerships with the education community

Employer responsibilities:

ü Make the student feel comfortable and welcome

ü Demonstrate what the job is like on a daily basis

ü Introduce the student to the various career opportunities in the field

ü Make the critical link between what the student is learning in school and what will be used on the job

ü Reassure the student that everyone is important to the workplace

ü Demonstrate courteous and professional conduct

ü Submit all forms as required