Reviews the issues associated with the school-to-work transition and suggests needed areas for research. (JDS)

Data were collected from 1016 students in grades 9-14 from 50 work education programs, and from 696 similar students who held part-time jobs but were not participating in work education programs. Participating students were significantly more satisfied with their jobs than were the nonparticipating students. (Author)

Presents two perspectives on the nature of vocational education: (1) that benefits are "extrinsic," that is, rewards are deferred until after graduation; and (2) that benefits are "intrinsic," that is, vocational education serves to promote full human development by exposing the learner to significant in-class experiences. (DR)

Statistically, postsecondary education is swinging from academics to vocationalism, partly because schools are ignoring their educative function to concentrate on credentialling youth for adult careers. Also, the custodialism of the schools, and the violence and delinquency there, encourage students to participate in society through work…

Two case studies, China and Synanon, reveal common features in the process of integrating the young into the world of work and civic responsibility through intensive feedback, the work ethic, geographic mobility, role models, and group atmosphere. (Author/DW)

Schooling's concern with certification and age segregation distinguish it from educational work. Considering education as a special form of work allows for a broader interpretation of appropriate educational settings in viewing educational work as a lifelong process allowing people of all ages to be involved in significant work experiences. (AF)

Education is constantly criticized for its "failures"--its "failure" to produce literate graduates, its "failure" to prepare students for the jobs of future technology, and its "failure" to reduce unemployment and establish equity for all students. However, these "failures" are not solely those of…