alternanza

Alternanza refers to the practice of alternating between different contexts or activities, with the aim of integrating learning with practical experience. In education, it is commonly used to describe programs that combine study with work-based experiences, in order to develop skills, professional orientation, and civic awareness.

In Italy, the term is most closely associated with the system known as alternanza scuola-lavoro (ASL), now often referred to as alternanza formativa. The policy is designed to connect school curricula with the labor market by requiring students in secondary education to undertake periods of work-based learning during their studies. The exact structure and hours vary by school level and local regulations, but the core idea is to provide real-world experiences that complement classroom teaching.

Organization and delivery are typically managed through partnerships between schools and external organizations, such as private companies, public administrations, or nonprofit entities. Each student usually follows a personal curriculum plan that sets learning objectives, activities, and competencies to be developed. A school tutor and a host-organization tutor supervise the experience, assess progress, and ensure alignment with the student’s curriculum. Activities can include internships, project work, or other forms of practical tasks linked to the student’s field of study.

Outcomes associated with alternanza include improved employability, clearer career orientation, and the development of transferable skills. Criticisms focus on variability in quality and supervision, potential unequal access, administrative complexity, and concerns about the use of students as inexpensive labor. The program remains a central element of Italian secondary education reform, evolving through legislation and local implementation.