This paper aims to explore the relationship between work-based learning experiences (WBLEs), students’ career readiness perceptions and information literacy.
Graduating seniors completed an information literacy assessment as well as a survey in which career readiness and WBLE information were provided. The same students had also completed the information literacy assessment as incoming freshmen, four years prior.
Results consistently demonstrate a positive relationship between WBLEs in which students report opportunities for skill development with career readiness, information literacy and change in information literacy over time. Students who engaged in WBLEs primarily involving skilled or autonomous work had better information literacy than students reporting primarily job shadowing.
The results provide information about how work-based learning is associated with career readiness and information literacy and can inform development of these programs in higher education.
