A study surveyed 44 skills centers in The Gambia through a questionnaire, evaluated them regarding vocational training, and conducted on-site research of 17 targeted centers. Findings were as follows: most operated as private organizations; the retention rate was an average of 84%; centers operated with an average student/staff ratio of about 12:1…

In six articles presents research reflective of the diversity and commonalities of the Black female experience. Deals with educational, career, and psychological issues surrounding Black adolescents, working and professional women, college students, and employed mothers. Discusses militancy, fear of success, coping, nontraditional careers, and…

A preliminary analysis of questionnaire data indicates, along with academic outcomes, a significant impact of work and study abroad programs on subsequent behavior. Educational and job decisions were influenced, as well as thinking about values and American identity. Focus is on the Antioch Education Abroad program and its participants.…

Provides an overview of the philosophical approaches to the relationship between work and education and how these two concepts function best in a democracy. Recommends a return to the philosophy of John Dewey, who advocated a symbiosis of education and work resulting in a life of meaningful activity. (MJP)

A survey of 111 campus recruiters of graduating students shows agreement that interviews are the most important selection method. Students' verbal communication skills, character, work experience, and academic performance were judged the most important personal characteristics in applicants. Work-related expectations and attitudes were the most…

Discusses previous job satisfaction research and reports a study of job satisfaction among Ohio academic library support staff using Paul E. Spector's Job Satisfaction Survey. The 434 responses indicate general satisfaction, with greater satisfaction among females, among those who work in public services, have less experience, or who work…

Discusses factors involved in locating new BMW car-manufacturing plant in South Carolina. Discusses state's business environment, transportation, and education system. Describes development process, site selection, and implications for economic development. Describes importance of state's labor-force development via regional technical colleges and…

A movement in designing special education curricula in Illinois is to provide instruction in "natural community environments," including simulated and real job sites. Special education vocational programs have shifted emphasis toward a life-skills approach that incorporates vocational elements. Describes an Illinois curriculum model…

The Tools for Understanding Project moves noncollege-bound students toward varied, integrated experiences with literacies required for success in the work force. The program excels at teaching higher order thinking, linking instruction with communication, and giving students practice in problem-solving (raising funds for a field trip). (MLH)

This follow-up study interviewed 720 former special-education students nine months after exiting New York schools for employment, postsecondary education, and community living outcomes. Results indicate special-education program components contributing to success included work experiences, occupational education, transition planning, and…

Information is provided on tech prep education programs, which are part of a restructuring movement that combines secondary and postsecondary programs to provide technical preparation in a field such as engineering technology, agriculture, health, or business. Information on the following topics is outlined: seven essential elements of tech prep;…

A study was conducted to determine some strategies useful in fostering entrepreneurship through business incubators and postsecondary programs supported by community and technical colleges. Data were gathered through a survey of entrepreneurs and incubator managers in 74 business incubators across the United States and individual and group…

Two phases of related research investigated the nature of women's skill development needs. The first phase examined prior schooling and current and future training needs of managerial and professional women. A questionnaire was administered to an initial sample of 163 and a replication sample of 207. Participants indicated interpersonal,…

Currently, 14 of the 22 Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree programs at New Jersey's Cumberland County College (CCC) provide work experience opportunities, incorporating hands-on experience and theories derived from instruction in the classroom. Employers who participate in work experience, or Cooperative Education (CE), programs benefit by…

This paper describes a three-phase program which places students with disabilities into job sites in strip malls, enclosed malls, industrial parks, and individual businesses to prepare them for their transition to independent living. The paper explains that in phase 1 of the program students train at a different site each day; in phase 2, students…