A study identified students' perspectives on quality and nature of learning achieved in a vocational program using a cooperative learning approach. The theoretical framework for analysis of the implementation of a vocational program included Lave and Wenger's (1991) concept of situated learning and the Guile and Griffiths' (2001) model of work…

A study examined student participation in work experience and workplace learning programs using 1996 and 1997 data from the Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth on a cohort first sampled in 1995 when students were in year 9. Findings related to work experience programs revealed few differences between students who took part in work experience…

This paper describes the different methods used to evaluate individually configurable multimedia materials developed for the Horizon project, a program designed to increase employment opportunities for students with disabilities or learning difficulties. The project established a working cafe/restaurant in East London staffed by the students. Part…

The proceedings includes the following: "Evaluation of the Leadership Development of Oklahoma Agricultural Leadership Program Graduates" (Lee-Cooper, Weeks); "Model for Undergraduate Academic Programs in Agricultural Communications" (Terry, Jr. et al.); "Competencies Needed for Graduates of Agricultural Communications Programs" (Terry,…

Economic, technological, and social changes occurring around the world have produced incredible challenges for youth, symbolized by persistently high youth unemployment rates despite increasing educational attainments and a shrinking youth population. Chapter 1 of this book provides an overview of the initiatives undertaken by Canada and the…

In Finland, ammattikorkeakoulu (AMK) or higher vocational education institutions or polytechnics are professionally and practically oriented; their teaching and learning methods reflect approaches different from those of universities. Training and learning methods focus on learning by doing. Project work used in polytechnic programs offers…

This document focuses on investigations of three main issues of "User Choice," which has been applied to New Apprenticeships since 1998. The issues are as follows: (1) why some firms do not access User Choice when arranging training for their trainees and apprentices; (2) whether the size of the firm has a significant impact on User…

This guide offers a framework for action for employer associations to help their members develop school-to-career programs that reflect the needs of today's workplace. The framework for action covers three areas: (1) identifying the major constituents; (2) understanding the constituents' needs; and (3) helping employers effect change. The…

Discusses the educational and social efforts of the Benevolent Mechanics Association in Petersburg, Virginia, between the years 1825 and 1857. Although economically prosperous, the southern mechanics (all skilled trades) established a night school for their apprentices in a bid for social acceptance. Examines the reasons for the school's failure.…

New England's business, education, and political communities must work together to improve literacy, increase job-specific vocational training, support incumbent worker training, and create more avenues for job access. If labor needs are not met, some companies may leave New England. The New England Council, established in 1925 to keep jobs within…

Career development theories do not typically highlight their relevance to the school-to-work transition process. This issue features articles that examine how several prominent career development theories (person-environment fit, social learning, developmental, and social cognitive) can be brought to bear on this process. Three discussants assess…

Discusses contributions of Krumboltz & Worthington, 1999; Lent, Hacket, & Brown, 1999; Savickas, 1999; Swanson & Fouad, 1999 to the application of career development theories to the school-to-work transition. Concludes with recommendation that theory-building efforts derived from the individual experience of work-bound youth should be included in…

Overbrook School for the Blind (OSB), a specialized school serving students with blindness and visual impairment, has provided, since the early 1990s, paid summer work experiences as part of the school's Work Experience Program. In this article, the authors discuss how OSB has strengthened its original program as a result of the Workforce…

Intended for those responsible for supervised work experience in all levels in further and higher education, this book debates some issues surrounding placements and outlines a procedure for managing them. Chapter 1 is an introduction to the topic. Chapter 2 discusses the educational purpose of placements. Chapter 3 suggests that some difficulties…

The challenge of preparing young people for employment and facilitating the smooth transition from school to work has spurred the enactment of the federal School-to-Work Opportunities Act (STWOA), in May 1994. The intent of STWOA is to establish a national framework in which states can create work- and school-based learning systems that include…