Why Students Need Exposure to Diverse Careers

Sometimes, when I visit elementary classrooms, I ask students what they want to be when they grow up. I get a lot of different answers, but they’re often the same: athlete, police officer, or teacher. These are all fine professions—we need them! But what about all the others? Why don’t students know about opportunities in computer science or what an engineer does? Career-connected learning addresses this gap by integrating career-oriented features or experiences into teaching and student learning.

Career-Connected Learning in Action: North Godwin Elementary

For example, at North Godwin Elementary School, students participate in design challenges three times a year. These challenges often immerse students in roles like engineers or product designers.

In one challenge, students read an informative text about an animal losing a limb and needing a solution for survival. They researched the animal’s movement needs and used Tinkercad to design and engineer a prosthetic limb. One student, for instance, designed a prosthetic tail for an alligator. The initial design was a single connected piece, but after collaborating with their teacher, the students refined it. The final version included wire components connecting segments, allowing the tail to sway for better balance.

The Role of Career-Connected Learning in Today’s Education System

Career-connected learning at North Godwin is just one example. Many schools are doing their part to feature different types of career exposure, experience, and extension within their programming. With the most recent career readiness updates, the Michigan Department of Education has clarified how schools might approach career-connected learning.

Updates to the Michigan Career Development Model (MCDM)

In December 2024, the MDE released a revised edition of the Michigan Career Development Model (MCDM), building on the foundation set in 2018. A 60-member statewide committee of local, regional, and state leaders collaborated to develop this update. The revised model introduces new targets and strategies tailored for every educational stage, from early childhood through postsecondary education.

Key Updates in the 2024 MCDM

• New Reference Guide: This comprehensive resource helps districts implement effective career development programs.
• Career Development Graphics and Icons: These visual tools clarify career pathways.
• Integration with MICIP: Districts can use strategies and metrics aligned with the Michigan Integrated Continuous Improvement Process.
• Resource Sharing: Educators can access best practices and tools through platforms like MiStrategyBank and #MiGoOpen.

Empowering Educators to Foster Career Exploration

With these updates, educators can better support students in exploring various careers. Imagine the impact of this kind of learning: a student might someday tell me they want to be an engineer who designs prosthetics or a cybersecurity specialist who keeps people safe.

#CareerConnectedLearning #FutureReadyStudents #MichiganEducation #STEMEducation #StudentOpportunities #WeLeadLearning #KentISDpd #Innovation

This blog post was written by Du Bui, STEM Consultant for Kent ISD and edited by Amanda Walma, T&L Marketing and Communications Specialist for Kent ISD.