The "market" is not a natural phenomenon but a social relationship. Growing gaps in income distribution and changes in employment patterns are dramatically increasing inequality. Vocational and adult educators accept too readily the claim that training can change the economic environment. (SK)

Argues that problem-based learning, which stresses relevant learner issues and allows for the flexibility of the situation and the learners in the classroom, can be used to better prepare students for the workplace. Presents the five steps the process takes students through--engagement, inquiry, solution building, debriefing and reflection, and…

In response to high numbers of preventable fatal accidents in the logging industry, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) developed a week-long logger safety training program that includes hands-on learning of safety techniques in the woods. Reaching small operators has been challenging; outreach initiatives in Maine, North…

Four articles address topics related to projects and themes: (1) "Supporting Young Children as Activists: Anti- bias Project Work" (Pelo); (2) "A Study of Hands: Chicago Commons Explores Reggio Emilia" (Harger, Rodriguez, & Schroeder); (3) "A Personal Experience with Portfolio Books" (Meinen); and (4)…

Identifies career concerns of displaced workers in vocational training. Reports on results of 83 questionnaires (100% response rate) received from dislocated workers in vocational training, indicating that students were most concerned with identifying potential career possibilities. Discusses implications and recommendations for career counseling.…

Reports on a three-phase study that examined the relationship between earning power and the successful completion of a program of study at a community college. Discusses the impact this issue may have on state legislators examining the role of the community college. Urges collection of hard data for presentation to legislators. (Contains 23…

Interviews with 26 Greek companies involved in electronic activity revealed few major differences in recruiting information/communications technology (ICT) specialists and extensive use of outsourcing, especially by small firms. Those with recruiting difficulties thought ICT education was inadequate. Informal learning was important, but lack of…

A methodology for calculating the return on training investment is described. The method covers attitudes, knowledge, and behavior of participants as well as effectiveness in organizational improvement. Output, time savings, quality improvements, and "soft data" on effectiveness are set against costs. (TJH)

Describes a study that used a nonobtrusive methodology to determine the effectiveness of an information desk staffed by graduate students and nonprofessionals in an academic library. Relationships that were found between the level of staff members and the quality of reference services are described, and the implications for staffing patterns and…

Describes a study conducted at the Brigham Young University Library that examined the quality of reference service provided by students and department assistants, the adequacy of the training program, and the effectiveness of the system of referring patrons to subject specialist librarians. Recommendations for improving training programs and…

The authors describe a regional attempt to provide access training that would help members of ethnic minority groups to become police officers. The training structure includes tutorial workshops, private study, community service, and extension activities. A modest increase in the number of minority police officers has been achieved. (CH)

Reed lists characteristics of programs for adult learners with special needs: (1) finding out, (2) reaching out, (3) starting out, (4) helping out, (5) watching out, and (6) spelling out. Wircenski discusses strategies to use with disadvantaged adults. Schwingen and others cover strategies for use with adult immigrants. Leconte and Taymans discuss…

Examines the development of Federal job training programs, including the Job Corps, the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), and the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA). Argues that these programs have actually harmed participants and wasted millions of tax dollars. (FMW)

Techniques and considerations in hiring support staff for student service programs are presented in the form of checklists, with some explanation provided. The hiring process is divided into three phases: (1) preparation, (2) interview, and (3) orientation, training, and evaluation. (MSE)

Describes a program through which employees were assigned to positions other than their own for job training purposes. The benefits of such a cross-training program, factors that should be considered prior to program planning, a model for effective implementation, and follow-up to promote retention of new job skills are covered. (KRN)