In this article, the author talks about UK Government's informal learning consultation by considering the role of the workplace. As John Denham set out at the launch of this consultation process in January, trade unions have been at the heart of such learning throughout their history; campaigning for education for all and for public libraries,…

Analysis of British government, employer, and union policies on lifelong learning reveals different emphases. A case study of a union-sponsored workplace basic skills program illustrates the competing agendas of competitiveness, equality, and union organizing. The role of further research to influence policy and practice was emphasized. (Contains…

Describes the Youth Training Scheme that will give all young people under the age of 18 the opportunity to acquire a job-related skill. The program will include assessment, basic skills, occupational training, counseling, and progress review. (JOW)

This article discusses similarities in educational trends in the United States and the United Kingdom, and criticizes the back-to-basics movements in each country. The need for further research in education and its application to the fullest development of children is suggested. (BH)

Discussion of the need to raise education and training levels in the United Kingdom focuses on qualifications based on a clear specification of outcomes. National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are described as a model that can be expanded to meet educational objectives as well as occupational competence, and core skills are discussed. (nine…

Traces the history and philosophy of core skills. Suggests that, although the way they are used in training and vocational education has positively changed the way skills are viewed, the approach is narrow in outlook, especially the General National Vocational Qualifications, and may not serve the best interests of industry or society. (Author/JOW)

Focusing on the definition of skill transfer, this article examines the relationship between research work on transfer and various curriculum initiatives designed to promote it. Competing theories of transfer are explored, examples from medical and scientific education are described, and the National Council for Vocational Qualifications core…

Describes an outcomes approach to educational and training systems as utilized in Britain's National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). Units of competence are explained, including performance criteria; analysis of competence is discussed; higher-level competence is considered; and an example of a core skill specification is included. (11…

Includes "Staff Development for Educators Working with Black Communities" (Lewis, Murray); "The Changing Scene in Wales" (Poole); "Staff Development in Open College Networks" (Mager); "Staff Development in the Provision of Adult Literacy and Basic Skills" (Wells); and "European Aspects" (Oglesby).…

Argues that attempts to provide university students in the United Kingdom with generic skills (such as study and information technology skills) are hampered by the differing needs and expectations of various disciplines and courses and of diverse student population groups. Describes and critically analyzes a case study of one such course,…

This handbook provides useful information on using the Adult Literacy and Basic Skills Unit (ALBSU) standards with English-as-a-Second-or-Other-Language (ESOL) students. The ALBSU standards were developed as the result of the Basic Skills Accreditation Initiative funded by the British Department of Education and Science and the Employment…

Describes a framework for teaching British National Curriculum subjects to pupils with profound learning difficulties. Discussion focuses on curriculum adaptations, educational rationale for subject selection, insights from subject specialists, and integration of therapies, health care, and emotional support within education. (DB)

Examines the debate over "key skills" in the United Kingdom's higher education curriculum, intended to compensate for early specialization in school and make education more relevant to work. Suggests that a more fundamental curriculum reform is needed, because key skills focus narrowly on"practical" outcomes and because the…

This "think piece" on ways to increase demand for learning in the United Kingdom is designed to stimulate debate among policy makers and managers in the new learning and skills sector. Section 1, on context, addresses these issues: low skill levels; delivering skills to employers; low adult participation; and negative attitudes. Section…

Proceedings of the 1982 annual meeting of the Association of Vice Principals of Colleges in England are presented. In "The Future of Further and Higher Education," William Shelton discusses vocational preparation and the Manpower Services Commission (MSC), faculty development, the new 17+ Qualification or Certificate of Pre-Vocational…