This qualitative research examines the cognitive processes embedded in self-explanations of automobile and motorcycle service technicians performing troubleshooting tasks and solving technical problems. In-depth interviews were conducted with twelve service technicians who have obtained the designation of "master technician" or equivalent within…

Studies on continuous education and alteration are highly significant in order to improve the technical and social abilities of the industry employees. Generally, these kinds of educational facilities are carried on in the range of in-house training. Besides in-house training, it is also possible to improve the abilities of the employees with the…

Performance appraisals have traditionally been directed at individuals, serving either an administrative or developmental purpose. They may serve a role definition purpose as well. This study sought to identify and more broadly define the purposes of performance appraisals to include this role definition purpose. Furthermore, this study examined…

In two automotive air-conditioning classes, an experimental group (n=12) conducted laboratory activities structured by cognitive apprenticeship principles; 14 controls attended lectures. Cognitive apprenticeship was significantly more effective in increasing information acquisition, troubleshooting knowledge, and diagnostic skills. (SK)

Conceptions of learning and approaches to learning within vocational education were studied with 30 Finnish students of automotive mechanics. About half the students took a quantitative view of learning and favored a surface approach. Encouraging a qualitative view of learning and deeper approaches in vocational education is discussed. (SLD)

Observed the work at 16 automobile manufacturing sites to study the level and content of mathematics required of workers. identified the mathematical demands of various aspects of production. Results raise questions about how well schools prepare students for the "global competitive workplace." (SLD)

In a study of secondary and postsecondary auto mechanics programs, some certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, students completed the Test of Cognitive Skills and the auto mechanics certification test. Students in certified programs had higher auto mechanics knowledge scores. (SK)

In a survey of 17 female and black students majoring in automotive technology, 51% said high school teachers and family influenced them to choose automotive technology as a career; 66.6% identified involvement with other students and faculty encouragement as factors contributing to their success. (Author/JOW)

The second volume reporting on the Samoan Demonstration Program contains four sets of custom designed auto mechanics instructional materials, each including instructor's directions for using the materials. The materials were designed for Samoan speaking students who desire to improve their basic English communication skills, and the lessons…

Analysis of records of 50 first-year students in automotive technology identified American College Test (ACT) math score as a significant predictor of first-year performance. High school rank and composite ACT score were not significant predictors of college grade point average. (SK)

A survey of 382 students in four-year automotive technology programs found that reputation of the program and the university were key enrollment influences. Other factors influencing choice included campus visits, parents/relatives, counselors/teachers, technology-based recruitment activities, and friends. (Contains 31 references.) (SK)

In order to build auto mechanics curricula and instructional programs responsive to the needs of employers, Bakersfield College (BC) sent a questionnaire to all employers listed under "Automobile Repairing and Services" in the yellow pages of the local telephone book. Only 43 (20 percent) of the 215 questionnaires sent out were returned;…

Sophomore and junior high school auto mechanics students were given technical instruction plus advance organizers in the form of three unit booklets. In comparison with control groups, pre/posttest and retention test results show that advance organizers facilitate the learning and retention of new complex technical content. (SK)

Discussed is the automobile in terms of the Otto cycle, engine heat losses, internal engine losses, drive train losses, road power, and driving habits. Each of these topics is described and calculations are shown to aid the physics teacher in the use of the automobile in the physics classroom. (Author/DS)

The study was conducted to develop methods for using timely, firsthand occupational task information on automotive mechanics in order to identify critical performance requirements that warrant formal training. The methodology used is described in detail. A Task Inventory Questionnaire was completed by 18 auto mechanics and 12 supervisors in each…