An experimental study of the impact of a prevocational literacy program on subsequent occupational education for military personnel yielded findings that led to a major redesign of the literacy program. (CT)

Vocational educators have finally realized that they can offer more to economic development and job creation activities than just training. At places where this realization has spurred action, building linkages and opening channels of communication, vocational programs are succeeding in their efforts to increase employment opportunities. (CT)

Discusses how one U.S. Army school has been successful in increasing student motivation and decreasing training time through the use of self-paced instruction. Important components of this type of instruction are outlined. (SH)

A discussion of the issue of ethics training in business and whether or not ethics is a problem appropriately addressed by training. Includes two case studies taken from a multimedia program by an educational media corporation. (LAS)

The purpose of this study was to determine characteristics of the disadvantaged client and of the Concentrated Employment Program (CEP) which related to the successful vocational training and placement of 150 unemployed public assistance recipients who were served by the San Antonio Concentrated Employment Program. (Editor)

Job-embedded, mentor-dependent learning modes, such as action research, small-group problem solving, and peer observation, can be effective alternatives to conventional inservice education approaches. Well-designed teacher induction programs depend on creating a comprehensive plan, looking for knowledgeable mentor trainers, providing mentors with…

The European Community's EUROPROF project seeks to improve the skills of vocational education and training professionals through collaborative research across regions and countries. The Netherlands and Germany have begun cross-border collaboration. (SK)

The social partners (business/industry, government, unions, educational institutions) in Central and Eastern Europe are learning new ways of negotiation in a pluralistic democratic society. They are seeking to establish their identity and legitimacy as representatives. (SK)

Analysis of Modern Apprenticeships (n=2,222) in Devon and Cornwall was conducted in four industries: engineering manufacturing, hospitality, construction, and agriculture. Apprenticeship appeared to be a feasible vocational alternative to full-time education, attracting high-quality students. Trainers and career counselors played a crucial role in…

Describes how the British Post Office's training and development function evolved a human resource strategy designed to help individuals add value to the organization and apply thinking skills. Shows how the trainers' role shifted from classroom teacher to consultant and project manager. (SK)

A research review indicates that British employers are neither highly involved in nor satisfied with National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) despite claims for their role in providing needed skills. The review suggests that public funding of training should not be determined by the NVQ agenda or the objectives of the professional training lobby.…

For disadvantaged youth who leave school without vocational qualifications, as well as unskilled 20-30 year olds, a combination of work and initial vocational training is an especially suitable strategy. Constant supportive counseling and adapted examinations would also help. (SK)

Includes four theme articles: "Some Remarks on Modular Training in the Federal Republic of Germany" (Zedler); "Modular Initial and Continuing Education and Training: A Comparative Survey of the Education System in the United Kingdom and Germany" (Hammer); "Modules in Vocational Training" (Wiegand); and…

A study of the software industry, in which required skills change rapidly and skills shortages frequently occur, showed how work projects were designed with restricted opportunities for workers to acquire new skills. Skill development was not valued by management. The industry may thus be abetting its own skills shortage. (SK)