Overview:
Career Connected Learning (CCL) resources in Oregon are essential tools for educators and students focusing on career exploration and decision-making. To aid users in the exploration process, we've created a standardized framework for adapting resources from across the state--and beyond. Once adapted and uploaded to the Career Connected Learning repository, a CCL resource will include a Quick-Start Guide and one (or all) of the following: a lesson plan; a student activity; and a student reflection.
Variability in this content depends on the user. Students, for example, will benefit from a Quick-Start Guide... but will find little value in a Lesson Plan. Educators, meanwhile, may find each CCL Resource element useful in their classroom instruction. Fortunately, we've put in place a resources directory to help site visitors browse resources by category or audience type.
Elements of a CCL Resource:
Quick-Start Guides are the starting point. They offer clear, concise overviews of various career topics, allowing users to quickly grasp key concepts in different fields. These guides help users begin their journey into specific career areas. Our hope is that within 15 minutes of reading the Quick-Start Guide, users with have a clear sense of who created the resource, how to to use it, and how it aligns with career-learning goals.
Lesson Plans are another crucial element of CCL. They provide educators with straightforward, easy-to-use outlines for teaching career-related subjects. These plans align with school curriculums and are adaptable, enabling teachers to customize them for their classroom's unique dynamics.
Student Activities form the core of the CCL experience. These activities engage students in learning about careers through interactive projects and research tasks. They make the process of exploring different career paths both enjoyable and educational, assisting students in discovering their interests and potential career preferences.
Student Reflections are a vital part of this learning journey. Through these exercises, students actively reflect on their experiences, helping them to process what they've learned. This reflection aids students in understanding their own interests and in making informed decisions about their future careers.
Additionally, these resources encourage a hands-on approach to learning. Quick-Start Guides offer a practical introduction, Lesson Plans provide a structured educational strategy, Student Activities involve students in direct exploration, and Student Reflections foster deeper understanding and personal growth.
For educators and students in Oregon, the CCL resources are more than just informative; they provide a straightforward, accessible pathway to understanding and engaging with career opportunities. These resources support well-informed career choices, guiding users through a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.