Industrialized nations have learned that vocational education is essential to developing a skilled work force. Newly industrialized countries competing in the global economy are finding that automation, multinational companies, and rapid growth are making investment in human resources through training a critical strategy. (SK)

The authors review the concept of andragogy and synthesize recent criticisms of this theory. The use of andragogical techniques in job training is discussed. The authors conclude that, despite some weaknesses, andragogy is important in that it makes the teacher sensitive to the needs and interests of the learner. (CH)

The author states that the labor force will include increasing numbers of the poor, minorities, and women. The educational system helps these individuals prepare for jobs that will require high levels of skill and education. He discusses six major reform proposals, all of which address career development needs of new labor force entrants. (CH)

Young adults without a college education and their families are suffering declining economic status and diminished opportunities. Real incomes of males aged 20-24 years fell 25 percent between 1973 and 1986. Inspired by time-tested alternative paths to work and learning recommended by Howard Gardner, the Grant Commission on Work, Family, and…

Reviews the literature on training evaluation and proposes a model for evaluating training. Helps human resource development researchers, practitioners, and students think about training in terms of education. Describes the elements of the model and two training scenarios to illustrate use of the model in workplaces. (JMV)

The pessimistic conclusions of studies of vocational education/training conducted within a framework of reproduction theory contrast with the policy literature's faith in the promise of a high trust/high skill society. The transformation of society and social relations is unlikely to occur in a capitalist system. (SK)

Examines the use and convenience of distance learning by telecourses, providing results from surveys of Montgomery Community College students over a 10-year period regarding their preferences and the appeal of telecourses. (DMM)

Discusses adult literacy in the workplace and presents an annotated bibliography of 48 government documents, journal articles, and monographs on the subject that were written from 1988 through 1991. A descriptive listing of eight organizations concerned with workplace literacy is also included. (six references) (LRW)

Demographic trends show that areas such as Kentucky, Japan, and Sweden are experiencing very limited labor force growth and heavier reliance on older workers as the younger population declines. Implications of an aging work force for policy involve pensions, health benefits, retraining, flexible work options, and income support programs. (SK)

Debates surround whether high-tech or low-tech jobs are fastest growing and whether technology increases or decreases skill requirements. Technology education can aid productivity improvement by reinforcing academic content, enhancing higher-order skills, and promoting active involvement with technology. (SK)

Workplace and demographic changes will require educational institutions to adapt and provide services enabling transition from schooling to work. Emphasis should be placed on individual career development and the needs of the job market. (SK)

Asserts that a large part of the labor pool from which businesses draw employees is poorly educated. Suggests that a good way to get help is to create strategic alliances with government agencies and private organizations. Presents examples of an alliance that was formed to address labor deficiencies in South Carolina. (JOW)

Challenges of a changing Europe for education and training are new technology and organizational patterns, youth unemployment, professional mobility, and migration. Developments in Italy that exemplify change include literacy for immigrants, work-related education for women, "Green Universities," and transferable skills. (SK)

The U.S. workplace will look very different in the next century and the education system will have to improve to meet the needs of that workplace. The National Association of Manufacturers offers companies models from others who have found good training programs. (JOW)

Discusses the need for U.S. companies to offer training and education programs to survive in today's market. Offers case studies of successful onsite work force education programs. (JOW)