Argues that business schools should consider how they could use institution-sponsored student portfolios to enhance the job-search process of their students. Discusses what employers are looking for in new employees, and how portfolio design should demonstrate these qualities. Discusses administrative issues in implementing such a project, and…

After German reunification in 1990, a common, comparable school structure was successfully established. Instead of attending mostly vocational high schools, East German students now choose among three school types: a college preparatory "Gymnasium"; a technical-clerical, intermediate "Realscuhle"; and a manual-labor oriented…

The transition phase from higher education to employment is examined for diverse European systems of higher education (United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, France, Spain), drawing on data from studies of the 1980s and 1990s. Areas for further research are noted. (MSE)

College student employment programs result in positive learning outcomes. The Leap to Excellence Acceleration Program (LEAP) was designed to provide students with useful training from student employment and to provide employers with a program focused on developing skilled, informed, productive citizens. Development and evaluation of the program is…

Analyzes cases published in the March 1998 special issue of this journal and contrasts them with results of a survey of 25 employees regarding the kinds of writing that are important to successful performance at work. Finds the cases involve exceptional rhetorical situations when in reality the rhetorical situations business writers usually face…

States that a real education should give health-technology providers the skills and understanding that enable them to be autonomous in the performance of their duties. Asserts that simultaneous multiskilling, providing skills in a number of areas, and the reintroduction of traditions of "master craftsmanship" better prepare students for the…

Human capital investment, in the form of education and training, is the key to improving labor market outcomes for high school leavers. GED certification provides an opportunity for education and training, but is no substitute for it. The GED credential is only a starting point. GED holders are not equivalent to high school graduates. (MLH)

Comparison of postsecondary educational outcomes of high school graduates with and without learning disabilities (LD) from three large school districts 5 to 10 years later found: graduates with LD were significantly less likely to have attended any form of postsecondary school or to have graduated from postsecondary programs. However, little…

Uses Canadian class structure and labor data to estimate the returns to over- and under-education. Returns are positive for males in jobs requiring a bachelor's degree, but insignificant for other required education levels. Undereducated males receive lower pay. For females, returns to over-/under-education are insignificant. (Contains 27…

A survey of 248 alumni of an Australian university found that their satisfaction with academic resources, support services, and competency development significantly predicted their perceived employment preparation. Vocational graduates reported greater employment preparation than generalist graduates. Most felt better prepared for local employment…

Traces how the meaning of "skill" has broadened considerably since the 1950s by examining relevant policy literature and the central, "re-defining" role of the (British) Manpower Services Commission and Further Education Unity in the 1970s and 1980s. Recent usage seems compatible with a low-skill economy. (Contains 71…

Presents information relevant to school counseling about the implications of work changes. Outlines foundational guides for student success: improving decision making, learning about career paths, acquiring employability skills, and developing lifelong learning attitudes. Describes activities to facilitate career development. (SK)

Career education and guidance are being given high priority and substantial funding in Britain. Recent government mandates have led to an integrated academic and career curriculum, better trained staff, intermediate private career-service organizations, work experience for students in 90% of secondary schools, more fully realized career-resource…

The conceptualization of more innovative transition-intervention frameworks has become crucial for students with disabilities. A model incorporating school counselors as an additional resource in facilitating special education students' transitions to adult life is proposed. Systemic alternatives that creatively use counselor expertise within…

Debunks some goofy ideas--notions that schools control our economic destiny, money matters not in education, and American students' performance is uniformly dismal on international standardized tests. The United States offers more educational opportunities than other nations. Detractors and advocates of public education are given Rotten or Golden…