The term "alternative work schedules" encompasses any variation of the requirement that all permanent employees in an organization or one shift of employees adhere to the same five-day, seven-to-eight-hour schedule. This article defines staggered hours, flexible working hours (flexitour and gliding time), compressed work week, the task system, and…

A three-year effort to establish an exclusive collective bargaining agent for student employees at Michigan State culminated with an election in April 1976, in which the Student Workers' Union failed to win student employee support. Four phases of the organizational drive for collective bargaining are described. (LBH)

European experiments in alternative work patterns offer much practical experience. Their development, rationale, problems, and some of their consequences are discussed. (LBH)

The Retired Operating Staff Employment Services program brings to the University of New Hampshire a pool of skilled, experienced former employees as applicants for temporary employment throughout the campus. The system suits the needs of both the retirees and the university, costs less, and is deemed applicable to all institutions. (MSE)

A partial pension plan to encourage part-time employment of persons aged 60 to 70 could provide a more satisfying transition to full retirement. Age structure and the size of the labor force are discussed, along with conditions facilitating work and employment of older people and the effects of the rising cost of energy. (LBH)

Universities could benefit by offering more flexible part-time job opportunities such as job-sharing, following an apparent national trend in accommodating social and economic needs. Institutions have many options in scheduling and allocating tasks. Possible benefits include improved employee attitude and productivity. (MSE)