In an extraordinary example of work-based learning in action, students enrolled in the Business Communication program at Wyandotte Public Schools have been developing both their communication and technical skills by designing, printing, and adding grommets to professional-quality banners. This hands-on project is part of an initiative aimed at providing students with practical experience that closely mirrors the demands of the workplace.
The project, designed to increase the students’ understanding of visual communication and marketing, has been a key component in bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. A couple Business Communication students were tasked with creating banners that would meet the aesthetic and technical standards expected in professional settings.
This venture aligns closely with work-based learning principles, where students engage in meaningful, authentic tasks that simulate real job responsibilities. Through the project, students have learned the complexity of design software, messaging strategies, and the technical skills required to assemble a fully functional product. The inclusion of grommets in the banners was a detail that required precision and dedication, reflecting the need for attention to detail in any professional communication task.
The banners, featuring a range of designs from local businesses to senior banners, were printed using professional-grade materials and technology. Abby Clapp designed the Cheerleading, Football, and Band fall of 2024 senior banners. Jon Bowman and Kong Yang then installed grommets to ensure durability, providing the final touch that makes these banners suitable for actual use. The entire process has given them a deeper understanding of the logistics involved in creating professional marketing materials, from conception to delivery.
By providing students with an opportunity to create a tangible, real-world product, the Business Communication program is demonstrating the value of integrating work-based learning into the curriculum. This hands-on experience ensures that students are not only learning about effective communication strategies but are also prepared to implement them in a way that meets professional standards.
As the banners are displayed throughout the school and the community, they serve as a testament to the power of experiential learning and the practical skills students can gain from it. With this project under their belts, these business communication students are now better equipped to enter the professional world, having had the opportunity to experience the full cycle of a communication project, from concept to execution.
If you would like to purchase a banner, please contact the following:
Drenna Robertson, drobertson@wyandotte.k12.ok.us or
Samantha Young, syoung@wyandotte.k12.ok.us