Describes knowledge mapping, a tool developed to increase the objectivity and accuracy of task difficulty ratings for job design. Application in a semiconductor manufacturing environment is discussed, including identifying prerequisite knowledge for a given task; establishing training development priorities; defining knowledge levels; identifying…

Presents a critique of Taylor's scientific management theory and the negative consequences of work simplification. Compares this method with Maslow's, Herzberg's, and Thorsrud's theories of motivation, and contrasts the experiences of General Motors' application of Taylor's model and General Foods' application of Thorsrud's. (SK)

Taking the view that job sharing is a positive alternative for workers and employers, this article defines job sharing in broad terms and describes its evolution from the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to the present. The advantages, such as increased productivity, are felt to be impressive, but disadvantages also exist, including significant…

Collaboration by several school and library associations has resulted in a decision to adopt new job titles, job descriptions, and facility names. Reasons for this change are discussed and some insight into the process is provided by commentary from interviews. (JKP)

This document is a report on a 12-day symposium on work for the disabled--vocational rehabilitation and employment creation--which was held in Poland and Sweden in 1979. The symposium was organized jointly by the government of Poland and Sweden in close cooperation with the International Labour Office (ILO), Geneva. The report is divided into five…

Discusses the impact of changing library technologies on the role of technical services personnel. The areas discussed include online library systems, bibliographic utilities, networking trends, the proliferation of serials, electronic publishing, and the increased need for quality control in technical processes. (32 references) (CLB)

Carter reviews changes in the workplace and in campus recruitment procedures that affect student job placement and describes the University of Missouri's job development program (cooperative education, internships, part-time work, work study, service learning, and volunteering). Franta expands on service learning's effect on career development.…

Based on the authors' experiences as catalog, reference, and network resources librarians, this paper examines traditional methods of operation and the emerging blending of duties and the effects on individuals and the profession. Examines changing demands on library users as a cause for the blurring lines. Concludes that catalogers and reference…

Analyzes the Federal government's record, since the 1930s, on issues affecting employment and the economic well-being of Blacks. Throughout the last 50 years, legislative efforts to create full employment have been directly hampered by poor implementation, weak leadership, and a tendency, highly visible in the Reagan era, to place expenditures for…

A series of articles discusses employment issues in various countries: youth employment, reduced working hours and wage cuts, dislocated workers, government employment policies, and job creation. (SK)

A former college president's wife outlines the traditional role of the president's spouse and her experiences and perceptions of its pleasures and problems. Among the topics discussed are the lack of job description, time constraints, effects on personal and family life, effects on relationships, public relations, entertaining, and supervising the…

Discusses the rise of the concept of improved skills recognition in Australian industry. Highlights include the role of industrial relations; the Australian vocational education and training system; recognition, industrial relations, and workplace change; career and training paths; credentials; and future prospects. (10 references) (LRW)

Driven by restructuring, marketplace competition, and technological change, rural electric co-ops are implementing early retirement and severance packages, instituting staffing changes to reflect changing functions and needed skills, hiring business managers to develop business strategies and marketing plans, providing consumer-choice advocates,…

Describes a program designed to reduce unemployment among out-of-school youth caused by the inability of these youth to document that they have assets in demand by employers. The program would provide the chance to acquire such assets and to build a documented record of achievement, experience, and certification. (LRA)

Explores the emerging role of librarians and support staff members, and the requirements both will have to meet to function effectively. The discussion of practical ideas to help current staff prepare for as yet undefinable responsibilities includes participative management, staff development, and involvement in professional organizations. (10…