Models of Partnerships

While positioning the learner at the center is necessary, it is not sufficient. As illustrated in the graphics below: 

Model A depicts the learner surrounded by other stakeholders, such as educational institutions, employers, and state agencies. In this model, the learner has varied interactions with each party and plays an active role in their professional development. 

Model B also places the learner at the center but recognizes the diverse relationships that influence their journey. This model emphasizes how partnerships can articulate the benefits to the learner as a core objective. However, many partnership agreements often fail to clearly define these relationships. 

In Model B, learners are not solely responsible for establishing connections among stakeholders. Rather, the partnership design ensures that each stakeholder also engages with one another while understanding their relationship to the learner. While Model A portrays a series of bidirectional, independent relationships, Model B illustrates a web of interconnected relationships. This web more accurately reflects the ecosystem in which learners navigate their educational and professional journeys. 

Let’s consider a scenario where a third-party organization offers a credential encompassing college-level learning in a field that is attractive to employers. 

In Model A, the learner bears full responsibility for their journey. This includes: 

• Reaching out to the third-party credentialing body to understand how to earn the credential. 
• Inquiring at the higher education institution about opportunities for credit for prior learning (e.g., discovering how the credential can fit into a college degree). 
• Communicating with current or potential employers regarding the value and relevance of the credential. 

In contrast, Model B operates within a collaborative partnership between the third-party credentialing body, higher education institutions, and employers. In this model: 

• The learner is made aware of the credential as well as any associated college-level credits that can be integrated into their degree program through the direct support of the partners. 
• Employers align the third-party credential and additional credentials with job postings and career pathways. 

This collaborative framework allows partners to connect with one another and communicate essential information directly to the learner. Consequently, the learner is not solely responsible for establishing these connections or comprehending the relationships among the entities involved. 

One significant benefit of such partnerships is the shared responsibility they create. This arrangement enables learners to navigate their educational and career paths more smoothly and effectively. In a well-connected framework, all members of the partnership can exchange information transparently and cohesively, ultimately enhancing the learner’s experience.