This research paper is one in a series produced as part of the Cedefop project The changing nature and role of VET (2016-18). The aim of the paper is to provide an overview of how CVET is conceptualised in various international level policy documents and how it is referred to across countries. It discusses national conceptions of CVET, the…

There is much to welcome in Doug Richard's independent report on the future of apprenticeships. The Richard review offers proposals for redefining and improving the quality of apprenticeships, and for focusing them more on the needs of employers. But will the proposals work, if adopted, and what will be the impact on adults? For this article, the…

Research conducted during the Youth Research and Technical Assistance project established that the process of designing effective job training/employment programs for at-risk youth can be framed in terms of the following broad themes: focusing on youth as youth by developing program designs that are appropriate for their age and level of…

Research conducted by the General Accounting Office (GAO) indicates that the current system of multiple employment training programs requires major overhaul to reduce costs, streamline the bureaucracy, and improve results. The current system of 163 different federal employment training programs wastes resources and confuses and frustrates clients,…

If Europe is to remain at the driving edge, economic and political progress must be complemented by offering a "European vision" to Europe's young people. All young Europeans must be guaranteed access to education and training culminating in acquisition of a foundation of recognized basic knowledge and skills and access to guidance and…

This policy statement and report on computers and jobs examines some of the changes that are affecting jobs and the preparation of both young people and adults for those jobs. The policy statement addresses these selected issues: preparation of firms and new and experienced workers for the introduction of computers into the workplace, the role of…

The rapidity with which information processing equipment is changing has necessitated the development of business and office occupations curricula with a more generalized approach to the technology of information processing. Educational planners should use a systems approach rather than the more traditional components approach to develop curricula…

This report presents final proposals of five transition groups that gave shape to the recommendations of the Australian National Training Authority Ministerial Council relating to bringing training providers and their clients more closely together. Section 2 discusses simplifying processes and structures, through national structures, closer…

In England, vocational education and training (VET) does not exist as an institutionalized system as in Europe, where specialist institutions are tied to vocational qualifications, the labor market, and long-term objectives. Education has purposes other than to provide a skilled work force for the economy. However, the relationship between…

Several recently commissioned Department of Labor reports and other publications examining youth employment and training (E&T) programs were reviewed, and the findings were synthesized into a proposed framework for reviewing current and recommended directions for youth E&T programs with consideration for available research on youth development. It…

The United States will not be competitive in the global economy of the 21st century without a technically trained work force. Community colleges and secondary schools offering technical programs are becoming increasingly important to local businesses as companies rely on a combination of schools and on-the-job training to help their employees…

A Texas State Job Training Coordinating Council task force developed a series of recommendations regarding improving Texas' current employment and training system to prepare the state's residents for the "smart jobs of the future." A formal literature review was conducted, and regional forums were held and attended by a wide range of…

This white paper outlines a proposed framework for post-16 learning in England. Chapter 1 discusses the principles underpinning the new policy, which are as follows: investing in learning to benefit everyone; lifting barriers to learning; putting people first; sharing responsibility with employers, employees, and the community; achieving world…

The state of Victoria (Australia) needs a well-educated, adaptable work force to face the numerous challenges stemming from the following: shifts in employment toward "knowledge workers"; the impact of competition, technological change, and microeconomic reform; aging of the population; disparate views regarding the purpose of education;…

This document contains 27 essays and 5 policy statements regarding creation of a comprehensive and unified federal employment and training policy for youth and adults. The following essays are included: "In Search of the American Way" (Wills); "Rethink the Demand Side" (Smith); "The Federal Government as a Change Agent" (Nathan); "Making Sense of…