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TIPS
The visitor should interview the
workplace host using prepared interview questions.
The visitor should receive a thorough
tour of the workplace to gain an understanding of the type of career being explored.
The visitor should be introduced to key
employees and informed of their roles and responsibilities in the organization as well as their educational backgrounds.
The student should write a thank you
letter to the host and other key people.
The student should complete a
reflection exercise to analyze the experience and interpret its importance to life goals and skills.
The educator should give the student a
written assignment to stimulate analysis and synthesis of their experience. This will clarify the connections between learning in the classroom and
practical application in the workplace.
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Job Shadowing
Job shadowing is a work-based learning experience that allows a visitor to follow a host during a typical day (or period of
time) observing and asking questions about a particular career. Job Shadowing is a versatile activity, allowing
- Student career exploration in late middle and early high school
- Educators to experience the dynamics of the workplace
- Employers to return to the contemporary classroom
Review our brief list of supplemental resources that help facilitate the job shadow.
UNITE-LA joins in several job shadowing events. The national spring campaign called Goundhog Job Shadow Day (GJSD) is an opportunity to focus
educators and employers on the value of student job shadowing experiences. Educators In The Workplace takes teachers from the classroom to local businesses so they can experience the workplace that their students will be entering. Principal/Executive For A Day matchs business and education
leaders. By “stepping in each others shoes” they experience their colleague’s challenges firsthand.
These events rally the community around a specific activity. However, job shadowing should take place year around and many other opportunities
exist or may be created. Job shadowing is a good way to build understanding and lasting partnerships between the student, business and education communities.
Job shadowing allows a student to observe an interesting career path. The activity is best suited for students in
middle and early high school who are just beginning to match their talents to careers. The student follows an employer for one or more days to learn about a particular occupation or industry
without actually being involved in hands-on activities. They are able to witness a variety of tasks and learn about the educational requirements
associated with the career. This work-based experience gives the student a realistic idea of whether or not they are truly comfortable with their particular career interest.
Supplemental Resources
Virtual Job Shadowing
UNITE-LA Job Shadow Guide
Student Job Shadow Overview
National Job Shadow Website
Orientation Guide for Job Shadow Day
Coordinator Guide for Job Shadow Day
Student Guide for Job Shadow Day
Teacher Guide for Job Shadow Day
Health Organizations Job Shadow Guide
Host Guide for Job Shadow Day
“How To Have A Successful Job Shadow”
This is a comprehensive document that includes planning sheets, evaluation forms and other
material. It takes about two minutes to download but is well worth the wait!
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