What does the “earn as you learn” approach in construction education entail?

The "earn as you learn" approach in construction education entails paying trainees while they learn through on-the-job programs. This method allows individuals to gain practical, hands-on experience in a real-world work environment while also earning income. It is particularly beneficial in the construction industry, where practical skills are crucial for job performance. Working alongside experienced professionals during their training helps trainees develop competencies and gain confidence, all while developing a financial foundation.

In contrast, charging students for classroom instruction implies an educational model where learners incur costs without the benefit of practical experience or income, which is not aligned with the "earn as you learn" philosophy. Scholarships for online courses do not involve the work component or immediate earnings, which is essential to this approach. Providing unpaid internships fails to fulfill the "earn" aspect, as participants would not receive compensation for their labor while they learn, which is a fundamental characteristic of the "earn as you learn" strategy.