A study tested the claim that work-based learning can have positive effects on academic learning. Data were obtained through interviews with faculty, staff, students, and employers, and observation of classroom-based links to the work-based learning components at three sites involved in a work-based learning project. At the three sites, a total of 25 student interns were chosen as subjects and were observed several times for several hours each time and interviewed before and after their work placements. The study found that for 9 of the students, no evidence of academic reinforcement in the workplace were found. For 16 students, evidence was found for some aspects of the claim. Almost half the students experienced instances of the simple application of school-based knowledge at work. It was determined, however, that knowledge gained in the workplace could reinforce academic learning, especially if there is intentional instructor intervention connecting the two venues. In other words, work-based learning can have positive effects when it is done well. (Contains 20 references.) (KC)