“ For a teacher, it’s been night and day, it’s been an unbelievable experience. I wish I’d had the chance to take this type of curriculum. It’s much easier to make the class work relevant and to engage the students. ”
Social Studies Teacher and Director
Education Academy, Skyline High School, Oakland
What Is Linked Learning?
Core Components of Linked Learning
Characteristics of Successful Linked Learning Programs
Downloadable Linked Learning Fact Sheet
Linked Learning
Linked Learning transforms the high school experience by bringing together strong academics, demanding technical education, and real-world experience to help students gain an advantage in high school, postsecondary education, and careers.
In the Linked Learning approach, students follow industry-themed pathways in a wide range of fields such as engineering, arts and media, biomedicine and health. The term “pathway” is a common term in education and in the Linked Learning context is defined as:
A multiyear, comprehensive high school program of integrated academic and career technical study that is organized around a broad theme, interest area, or industry sector.
Pathways connect learning with students’ interests and career aspirations, preparing them for the full range of post-graduation options including two- and four-year colleges and universities, apprenticeships, formal employment training, and military service.
Used in schools throughout California, this integrated approach has been shown to lead to higher graduation rates, increased postsecondary enrollments, higher earning potential, and greater civic engagement.
Core Components of Linked Learning
Linked Learning pathways consist of four core components:
- A challenging academic component that prepares students for success in California’s community colleges and universities, as well as in apprenticeships and other postsecondary programs. Academics relate to the industry theme whenever possible and include:
- English – four years
- Mathematics – three years including algebra, geometry, and advanced algebra or statistics
- Science – two years including biology, chemistry, or physics
- Social Studies – three years including American and world history, U.S. government and economics
- Foreign Language – two years emphasizing oral communications and cross-cultural understanding
- Visual and Performing Arts – one year
- A technical component that delivers concrete knowledge and skills through a cluster of three or more technical courses while emphasizing the practical application of academic learning and preparing students for high-skill, high-wage employment.
- A work–based learning component that offers opportunities to learn through real-world experiences. Students gain access to intensive internships, virtual apprenticeships, and school-based enterprises. These experiences complement classroom instruction, helping sharpen students’ desire to increase knowledge and skills relevant to their career interests.
- Support services that include counseling and supplemental instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics that help students master the advanced academic and technical content necessary for success in college and career.
Characteristics of Successful Linked Learning Programs
The Linked Learning approach can be offered at a range of school types, including district schools, charter schools, or regional occupational programs. Regardless of the setting however, the following characteristics are necessary for success:
- A comprehensive program of study spanning grades nine to twelve
- Strong connections to postsecondary institutions to ensure a smooth transition after graduation
- Trained and motivated teachers and leaders
- Productive partnerships with industry and business to inform curriculum development and support work-based learning
Sample Curriculum
Click below to view sample course sequences for specific pathways:
