Linked Learning: Pathways to College and Career Success

A Name Change

After more than a year of careful consideration, key representatives of the growing multiple pathways field concluded that the name “multiple pathways” did not adequately serve the field. Based on extensive research and recommendations from several communications experts, they decided that “Linked Learning: Pathways to College and Career Success” better captured the benefits of the educational approach. The core components and guiding principles remain the same.

The James Irvine Foundation, the Coalition for Multiple Pathways, ConnectEd, and others in the field considered several key factors in making this decision. Many felt that Linked Learning better communicates the values and objectives of the approach. It emphasizes “learning” and “connection” and conveys how the approach links students with their interests, academics with technical education, and the classroom with real world experience.

Linked Learning also distinguishes the California approach, eliminating confusion with multiple pathways programs being implemented elsewhere. In New York, for example, multiple pathways are aimed at out-of-school youth and alternative education, and that focus also dominates perceptions of multiple pathways in Washington, D.C. and many parts of the national philanthropic community.

In the coming months, the field will transition to the new name, updating publications, websites, and other materials.