Since the early 1980s, several unions have negotiated for training and education funds paid for by the employer and administered jointly by the union and the company. However, the link between lifelong learning and productivity is more a matter of belief than a proven fact. (JOW)

Describes programs sponsored by labor unions that provide postsecondary educational opportunities to their members. (GC)

Among the ambitious programs in workers' education sponsored by Local 3 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers are high school equivalency programs, college scholarships, tuition assistance, and overseas travel-study tours. Focus is on the critical thinking seminars offered at the union's Long Island retreat. (JMD)

After describing the history of Ford Motor Company's relationship with workers from the inception of the assembly line through recent years, the author describes results of the 1979 National Joint Committee on Employee Involvement and 1982 labor negotiations, which resulted in retraining projects, tuition assistance, and career counseling and…

A new source of students, workers eligible for tuition aid plans offered as incentives or negotiated by unions, is seen as a significant development for higher education. Some worker education programs are described. Low participation rates are seen as the result of lack of information. (MLW)

Education financed by employers is seen as a largely unexplored area for enrollment increases and beneficial partnerships with the private sector. Employment-based tuition assistance programs can become a building block for the full range of successful higher education relationships with employers and unions. (Author/MLW)

District 1199, National Union of Hospital and Health Care Employees, established a training and upgrading fund. Through tuition assistance, paid educational leaves, and direct negotiation with educational providers, the union ensures its members, mostly women and minorities, an opportunity for educational and social advancement. (MLW)

A wide variety of educational benefits have been obtained by unions through collective bargaining. The challenge is to develop policies and programs that will enable workers and their families to more fully utilize these benefits. Union-sponsored education is discussed and the need for national planning is emphasized. (Author/MLW)