BUSN/WEXP 96 Seminar and BUSN/WEXP 95 Work Experience Fieldwork
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the goal of this course combination?
A: The course is part of statewide work-based learning programs that combine academic study and practical work experience to develop students’ marketable skills and prepare them for a successful career.
Q: In the course schedule, these classes are cross listed under both Business and Work Experience. Are they different classes?
A: No. These classes are exactly the same under each listing. If you are majoring in business, or a business-related field, it is recommended that you register for the class in the business department.
Q: The schedule describes these courses as co-requisites. What does this mean?
A: As co-requisites, the classes must be taken concurrently, much the same as taking a chemistry class and chemistry lab at the same time. The one-unit seminar provides the classroom connection with the fieldwork.
Q: Can I take these courses more than once?
A: Yes. This course may be repeated for a total of 15 cumulative semester units, including the BUSN/WEXP 96 class.
Q: If I intend to transfer to a four-year college, will the college accept credits from these courses?
A: Credits currently are transferable to CSU. If you plan to transfer to a private college or university, check on transfer status with the counseling office or with the specific college or university.
Q: What work is required in the seminar and how am I graded?
A: Required work includes, but is not limited to, completing an application form, writing fieldwork learning objectives, writing a resume, completing a career assessment exercise, and participating in class activities and discussions. Grades are based on assignments and class attendance. Enrolled students can find specific information in the syllabus and Blackboard assignments folder.
Q: What do I learn in the seminar?
A: Students explore life skills and work skills to enrich personal and professional development. Topics include career assessment, time management, writing resumes and cover letters, building strong workplace relationships and communications, conflict management, job interviews, and career management.
Q: This is a hybrid course. How does a hybrid course operate?
A: Hybrid courses combine online activities and face-to-face instruction that complement each other and give students flexibility. To succeed in the online portion of hybrid courses, students need to be self-motivated and have good computer skills.
Q: This course uses Blackboard. How does this operate?
A: Blackboard is an online course management system and one of the top e-learning systems in the world. When you register for the courses, you automatically are entered into the course on Blackboard. Posted in folders on Blackboard are class announcements, assignments, articles, guides, documents, syllabi, forms, and other materials students need for the class. Learn more about Blackboard.
Q: Where does BUSN/WEXP 95 meet?
A: There is no on-campus meeting for this fieldwork course. This course is based on your work at your place of employment. BUSN/WEXP 96 scheduled face-to-face meetings and online communications provide all the information and forms you need for your work experience.
Q: BUSN/WEXP 95 is a variable credit course. What does this mean?
A: Students can earn one to three units for this class, depending upon how many hours they work each week. It is the student’s responsibility to register for the correct number of units. Units are awarded according to the number of hours worked (with a maximum of 3 units).
5 hours/paid work/week = 1 unit 4 hours/unpaid work/week = 1 unit
10 hours/paid work/week = 2 units 8 hours/unpaid work/week = 2 units
15 hours/paid work/week = 3 units 12 hours/unpaid work/week = 3 units
Q: What if my weekly work hours are not exactly 5, 10, or 15? What if my hours vary each week? What if my hours change during the semester?
A: Choose the closest number; if it is 12 or less, choose 2 units and if it is 13 or more, choose 3 units. If your hours vary, tally your total hours for a month and calculate the average per week. If your hours change significantly during the term, contact your instructor.
Q: How am I graded in BUSN/WEXP 95?
A: Students write learning objectives they will work on throughout the semester. Before the end of the semester, the work-site supervisor, instructor, and student will discuss the progress made on the student’s learning objectives. From the supervisor’s ratings, and the relative course work, the instructor will determine the overall grade.
Q: Does my job have to be related to my major?
A: No. In fact, most students in this course hold jobs that are not directly related to their field of study. Typical places of employment include electronics, grocery, and retail stores; restaurants; recreational programs; and offices.
Q: Will this course help me find a job if I’m unemployed?
A: No. You must currently be employed or have a regular volunteer work commitment in order to take this course; but these courses do help with career preparation and job hunting skills.
Q: What if I’m working in an internship that is related to my major?
A: You should register for the concurrent Internship courses: INTN 1, the seminar; and INTN 2, the field placement.
