As former colonies struggle with economic development, consumerism competes with environmental awareness and concern. Developing countries should reject the models of the colonial past and create developmental strategies that preserve natural resources. (SK)

The U.S. Secretary of Labor outlines the roles of the essential partners in work force development: employers, unions, educational institutions, and government. Her human resource agenda places high priority on workplace literacy and basic skills training. (SK)

To address the education and training needs of the current and emerging work force, states must take leadership in developing partnerships between adult educators, community-based organizations, and the private sector. Other strategies include special training funds, resources for high demand occupations, entrepreneurship training, and tax credits…

A sample of 400 Wisconsin business owners (69 percent response) and 200 potential entrepreneurs (27 percent response) identified the relationship of personal characteristics, motivational factors, and the decision to start a business, as well as perceived barriers to business ventures. Unsuccessful potential entrepreneurs differed from successful…

Outlines Jordan's 1986-1990 Plan for Economic and Social Development, which (1) establishes a regional planning system aimed in part at rural development; (2) offers incentives to businesses outside the capital; and (3) encourages grassroots participation in the planning process. Contains 25 references. (SV)

The last decade has seen wide-ranging changes in the higher education-industry relationship in Ireland. It is increasingly recognized that colleges have a major role in providing technological and business capability for modern industrial services development and that close cooperation holds appreciable benefits for higher education. (MSE)

Nongovernmental organizations in developing countries tend to depoliticize citizens. They must change their perception of their role, stop portraying themselves as nonaccountable, stop creating community businesses that do not incorporate the market, and admit a role for private industry. (SK)

Sustainable livelihoods and environmentally sound technology should not be developed separately. They require that essential ecological services be protected by restricting use of resources and that those who exploit environmental resources be confronted with the future costs of their actions. (SK)

In a survey of 2,000 Chinese students receiving 1,698 responses, the top 3 reasons for participation in adult education were (1) to become more educated; (2) to improve effectiveness at work; and (3) to keep up to date. The relationship between education/training and economic performance arose frequently. (JOW)

Describes cooperatives as a new socioeconomic strategy for rural economic development. Cooperatives involve local control, local ownership, and empowerment through organization. Categorizes and gives examples of cooperatives in agriculture, retail grocery, credit, crafts, and health. Suggests some reasons why cooperatives tend to be ignored in…

To overcome isolation and disorganization of small urban producers, an experiment in Benin organized group-based networks to manage economic and financial services based on user needs and local culture. The feasibility and sustainability of these networks depend on recognition by existing institutions. (SK)

Describes rural revitalization efforts for small towns in central Washington. Planning analysis by Eastern Washington University faculty and students emphasizes community participation. Details revitalization of the town of Wilbur from planning stages to final outcomes. Describes overall project results. (KS)

Compares Freire's approach to education with enterprise education (small business development as in the Durham University model). Concludes that there is more common ground than expected; educational approaches that ignore economic realities are inappropriate; and a bigger role for enterprise education focused on small businesses is possible. (SK)

A Canadian study used expert panels, a national forum, and modified Delphi process to identify priority issues for vocational education: relevance, lifelong learning, restructuring, image parity with academic education, shared vision, new basics, partnerships, technology courses, leadership, and educational quality. Recommendations for improvement…

Considers the role of the essential functions of adult education: economic and social/moral development. Describes the implementation of these functions in Chinese history. (SK)