Research & Insights | Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning
Workforce and education systems often struggle to identify which programs work, who they work for, and under what conditions. Many organizations lack reliable data on work based learning and labor market outcomes, making it hard to design evidence based programs, invest strategically, and improve services over time.
AIR helps systems respond with clarity and evidence. We conduct studies to show what works, for whom, and when, and translate labor market and program data into practical insights. We also help partners build work based learning measurement approaches and data systems that produce reliable, actionable information for decision-making.
Our Projects
Strengthening the Apprenticeship Pipeline: State Strategies for Expanding Pre-Apprenticeship
Across the country, states are investing in pre‑apprenticeship programs as a core part of their apprenticeship systems. With support from Britebound, AIR’s nationwide survey highlights this rising momentum alongside state-by-state differences shaped by policy, governance, and capacity. Case studies from Pennsylvania and South Carolina show what’s working.
Enhancing Electrician Apprenticeship Selection and Retention
AIR works with the electrical training ALLIANCE’s apprenticeship program to conduct job analysis and implement and test apprentice selection procedures. AIR partnered with the electrical training ALLIANCE to identify strategies that improve apprenticeship completion rates and authored a research brief on apprentice retention as well as factors that mitigate attrition.
Defining and Measuring Work-Based Learning
AIR, as part of the Region 1 Comprehensive Center, supported the New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) to develop a common definition of work-based learning by analyzing existing definitions across the state organizations and engaging local stakeholders. In the evolving landscape of career and technical education, establishing a clear and unified definition of work-based learning is essential to ensure consistent understanding and implementation across programs.
Building Robust District Work-Based Learning Data Collection Systems
Through the CTE Research Network, AIR identified data collection strategies that can generate reliable, valid work-based learning data. Researchers can use these data to build effective work-based learning strategies. AIR also evaluated the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of using virtual school-based enterprises as a form of work-based learning.
An Experimental Evaluation of the Efficacy of Virtual Enterprises
Incorporating work-based learning into the curriculum as part of a career and technical education program may improve students’ readiness for college and careers. AIR is supporting a study that will provide the first causal evidence on the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of Virtual Enterprises, a year-long course in which students run a virtual firm.
