Gov. Scott Walker's sweeping proposal to scale back collective bargaining rights for most public employees in Wisconsin has sparked a rancorous standoff with teachers across the state--and fueled speculation about whether similar plans will gain traction in other parts of the country. But as massive demonstrations played out in Madison--an…

Discusses the position of Asian America labor history as a field of study that, as yet, does not exist within Asian American studies or labor history, but which has the potential to "decenter nationalist narratives and deflect the institutional imperative." (SLD)

Discusses the implications of the demographic and geographic situation of libraries in Canada for library unionization. Insight is also provided into issues directly related to library management and library unions, including five factors which cause distrust and dissatisfaction. (CHC)

Discusses labor relations at Yale University, explaining that for 35 years, they have been negative, with 4,000 workers recently walking off the job. (EV)

A trustee of a Canadian public library discusses issues that must be addressed by the library board when the library staff forms a union. Suggestions are provided to aid in dealing with a union. (CHC)

To help students of labor law understand the industrial union experience, one professor created a simulation in which students formed a union and bargained with the teacher on course terms and conditions. Planning considerations, simulation stages, and lessons learned are described. The exercise produced a meaningful context for students, taught…

In 1980-81, one issue dominated labor relations in elementary and secondary education--layoffs. In the future, unions are expected to protest layoffs more and more, at the bargaining table, on the picket line, and in the courts. This report highlights this issue in its section on major developments. The two major teacher unions--American…

Because of its poor labor relations and consequent public image, New Zealand's meat industry asked the University of Otago to provide management training. Describes difficulties in developing effective training acceptable to the industry, the compromise workshop approach involving questionnaires and diaries, and the workshop's qualified success.…

This paper presents an overview of labor relations in Sweden from the mid-19th century until the present. It begins with some basic facts about Swedish history, population, economy, and geography, then describes the historical background of labor union organization in the country. The paper then outlines the various types of trade unions in…

Collective bargaining is the process of negotiating and administering a contract agreement between a union and the employing organization. Although the specific provisions of collective bargaining agreements vary from one school to another, the collective bargaining process, and negotiated contract generally, address the following issues:…

Provides a concise rationale for teaching labor history, placing the labor movement squarely in the 20th century move towards a more inclusive democracy and expanded definitions of citizens' rights and citizen participation. Briefly discusses current problems of downsizing and the proliferation of low-paying jobs. (MJP)

Provides a succinct introduction to the history and classroom use of labor folk songs. Presents the lyrics to "John Henry,""Miner's Lifeguard," and "Talking Union," along with some background on each song. Includes a bibliography of books, articles, song collections, labor resources, organizations, and periodicals.…

Provides an introduction and overview to the publication "Labor's Heritage." Modeled after "American Heritage," this publication serves as an excellent resource for students and teachers. Includes three activities on child labor that use photographs and other materials from the George Meany Memorial Archives. (MJP)