The author states that, although sport is highly valued by many, the study of sport finds virtually no place in the curriculum and suggests that perhaps the study of sport may have a legitimate claim for inclusion. (KC)

It is necessary to improve the quality of teacher training and to require our schools to teach organized, disciplined, and systematic subject matter (Education in Depth) if our children are to be prepared for the future. (CM)

When interscholastic athletic programs enhance students' intellectual and social development, athletic participation becomes a valuable educational experience. Achieving success in our society requires much more than attaining academic success. The positive relationship between interscholastic athletics and educational performance should…

A group of leaders in vocational education answer questions about the future of vocational education, tech prep, applied academics, and school-to-work. (JOW)

Discusses how after a Supplemental Instruction program is up and running, it is useful to have a health check-up to see how vigorous the program is. Points out that the impacts of SI programs are diminished when activities are reduced. Presents a health checklist based on the elements of a fully functioning Supplemental Instruction program. (MZ)

Notes business studies lecturers in the United Kingdom (n=244, 40% response) do not believe the exclusive aim of their programs is for business. Suggests there are distinct academic and professional traditions with which attitudes toward aims and knowledge are linked, and that perceptions of business programs as strictly vocational may be…

The Stages of Concern Questionnaire was completed by 677 of 1,207 teachers at High Schools that Work sites. Those with no experience or first-year experience of reform implementation had high personal concerns that needed to be addressed. About half had high levels of adoption proneness indicating their potential to be reform leaders. (SK)

Argues that identity-sensitive education, focused on improving students' attitudes and beliefs about their own learning, is essential for academic success. Describes three models of identity-sensitive education: charismatic teacher, "together we'll make it," and "intellectual hothouse." Identifies common characteristics of…

The diversified skills gained from various industrial arts classes are a significant asset to anyone operating a small business or seeking fulfillment as a human being. Sometime soon an "educational think tank" will rediscover the value of three-dimensional problem-solving skills for students desiring a sense of accomplishment or improved…

A literature review suggests that occupational high schools and career academies can raise academic achievement, reduce dropout, and instill career aspirations. Integration is complicated by a web of policies and practices and negative images of vocational education. More attention should be paid to postsecondary integration. (JOW)

A survey of principals, counselors, and academic and vocational teachers was conducted in 69 Kentucky secondary schools before and in 67 schools after school-based decision making (SBDM) was implemented. SBDM's effect on academic/vocational integration and vocational funding was minimal. Except for counselors, the percentage perceiving SBDM as…

Argues that collaboration between community college continuing education staff and campus-based credit staff will better meet the community's learning needs. Offers examples of collaboration in noncredit programing, outreach, community services, and occupational learning systems. (DMM)

The vocational versus academic education debate has focused primarily on public costs. This article compares both the public and private costs of technical-vocational and upper secondary education in Greece. There the private costs of education are much higher for academic than for vocational education, whereas the public costs are similar. (seven…

Although there are many gaps between schools and the workplace, encouraging changes include erosion of the walls separating academic and vocational programs; better information about necessary skills, knowledge, and habits of mind; and emerging systemic plans to address the school-to-work transition issue. Helping all students learn work-related…

A study of 24 Open University students found that adult distance learners approach learning either as reformulation of, or challenge to, texts. Those who reformulate may display surface knowledge but little engagement with issues. Those who challenge may create their own knowledge but fail in terms of instructors' expectations. (SK)