This study focused on determining the applicability of a mathematical modeling technique (goal programing) to state-level vocational education planning, using Missouri as a test case. Results indicate that such models may help the vocational planner solve problems that cannot be solved by more conventional methods. (SK)

Describes a secondary agricultural education program that was a dumping ground for academically disadvantaged students. Discusses how such a program can be improved by identifying problems and symptoms, treating problems, and goal setting. (JOW)

This report is a case study of a technical evaluation assistance project in each of four states: Alabama, California, Colorado, and Maine. (The project activities in each state included the following: becoming acquainted with the vocational education delivery system and methods of evaluation; identifying problems associated with the evaluation…

This document is designed to provide enough information for technical colleges and similar institutions to conduct their own focus visits. A focus visit is defined as a full-day activity that takes place on the campus during which a team of 10-25 individuals (program faculty, former and current students, technical college staff, advisory committee…

A project was developed to improve vocational administrators' program management skills through diffusion of the cost-effectiveness analysis system which was developed at Indiana University-Bloomington. Specific objectives were (1) to summarize the cost-effectiveness analysis system, (2) to develop a conceptual framework for the system's diffusion…

Numerous research studies indicate that vocational classrooms are subject to "negotiations" between students and teachers that have negative implications for instruction and learning. These negotiations can range from students offering nondisruptive behavior in exchange for a relaxation of academic standards to students offering certain…

This handbook provides program planners in vocational education with self-paced instruction in the framework of a problem-solving approach to program improvement. (The process can be applied to vocational school administration and management, student services, staff development, and instructional program areas.) Section 1 is a brief overview of…

This module, one in a series of competency-based administrator instructional packages, focuses on a specific competency that vocational education administrators need to be successful in the area of program improvement. The purpose of the module is to help administrators to identify sources of information needed to make program improvement…

This document contains 10 papers selected for presentation at a research conference on agricultural education. The titles are as follows: "Agriculture Students and Their Problem Solving Skills" (Rollins); "Agriculture Students' Preferred Styles of Learning" (Rollins); "Identification of Curricular Strategies for Enhancing…