Focuses on the ways in which cooperative education can contribute to three areas of personal development: competence, autonomy, and purpose. Investigates ways in which cooperative education programs place students on their own and assist in establishing career objectives. (JOW)

The author reports on a survey of recent undergraduate students with and without cooperative education experience. Results indicate that cooperative education experience is not a significant factor in recent students' relative development of a career identity. (CH)

A study comparing cooperative and noncooperative education students across time on several variables related to career maturity, career choice, and major certainty showed that co-op students rate higher in career maturity, career planning and problem-solving abilities. (JOW)

Comparison of research on effects of cooperative education and field experience on students' personal development, career development, and academic achievement found that differences in program goals, structure, students, and placement settings engage different processes but achieve similar results. (SK)

A literature review focused on effects of high school, junior high, and college student participation in field experience programs on personal, career, and affective development and academic achievement. Students appeared more responsible, mature, self-confident, socially adept, interested in school, and knowledgeable about work. (SK)