What is Cooperative Work Experience?
- It is a partnership between the student, Clatsop Community College, and employers to train the work force of the future.
- It is a credit course offered to
students in most areas of study. Credit is given for
learning, which takes place at a work-site related to
a student's major area of study. Credit is variable for
Cooperative Work Experience, and may also include an
additional one (1) credit Work Experience Seminar.
- Credit can be earned regardless of whether the student is paid or a volunteer.
- It is a program that helps students practice skills they have learned in the classroom in a real job setting.
Benefits of Cooperative Work Experience
For Employers
- A source of employees for part-term needs.
- An opportunity to pre-screen potential
employees with no obligation to hire.
- An avenue for direct input into college education and training programs.
- The satisfaction with helping to train hard-working motivated workers.
For Students
- A chance to practice skills learned in class.
- An opportunity to learn things not taught in class
- Work experience for a resume
- Many students report improved self-awareness, increased self-confidence, and a better understanding of their field of interest.
What is the role of an employer?
As an employer you play a vital role in the success of the cooperative work experience effort. As an on-site "instructor" you will enable the student to tie in their classroom experience with the real world knowledge necessary to fully understand any field. Working with the Clatsop College staff, you will help the student to understand the importance of good work habits and to demonstrate the achievement of mutually developed objectives.
What is expected of an employer?
- Read and sign the student's Learning Agreement form (.PDF, 65K). This document clearly defines what will be achieved each quarter by the student and defines each participant's responsibility.
- Meet with the student weekly to discuss progress. These meetings may be very brief or in depth. As problems or misunderstandings arise, these meetings provide the student and employer an opportunity to ask questions or suggest improvements in the learning situation.
- Meet twice per quarter with the student and the College's Site Monitor. These appointments will be set up by the college staff and will involve evaluation of the progress the student has made toward meeting his/her learning objectives. These are most often arranged at the work site and will be scheduled at the convenience of the employer and the student. These meetings rarely last longer than 20 minutes.
- Complete the employer evaluation form (.PDF, 111KB) at the end of the term. This brief form is your evaluation of the progress made by the student in achieving their objectives. You should be thorough and honest in this evaluation. Your comments will enable the student to better evaluate their potential for success in their field and to plan future studies.
- Let us know if problems arise. If a student is having problems on the job, please call the Cooperative Education office as soon as possible.
- Let us know if you have any openings that may be suitable for cooperative work experience students. We will actively recruit students that will meet the qualifications for the position. Most work experience students are talented, motivated, and make excellent employees. Call us first!
Who Participates in Our Program?
- Since Cooperative Work Experience began at Clatsop Community College in 1964, more than 2,000 students have participated in the program.
- Some 600 different employers have provided work site learning experiences.
- During each academic year, between 50 and 150 different employers share their knowledge with students in this program.
Contact Info:
| Director & Instructor: |
Joanie Weatherly |
| Email: |
cwedirector@clatsopcc.edu |
| Phone: |
(503) 338-2480 |
| TDD: |
(503) 338-2468 |
| FAX: |
(503) 325-5738 |
| Address: |
1653 Jerome Ave.
Astoria, OR 97103 |
| Campus Location: |
Towler Hall, Room 211 |
|
