This paper is for policymakers, advocates, and analysts who understand that the issues surrounding the introduction of more market-based mechanisms into education are complex and who accept the view that evidence is useful in sorting out the issues. It uses the market framework of demand, supply, and market pricing to organize the extensive but…

An economic analysis of the Universal Primary Education program in Nigeria results in recommendations that: (1) children be kept in school until age 15 when they will have acquired marketable skills to enter the work force; (2) more students be encouraged to continue into secondary school; and (3) adult education programs be intensified.(JMF)

The seven chapters of this theme issue present a state-of-the-art review of research studies into the effectiveness of economic and labor market results of continuing education. Substantive results and research methodology are examined in these examples of effectiveness research. Conceptual and methodological diversity characterize these studies.…

Two papers comprising Block II of a course in economics and education policy are presented along with a conclusion to Block I and II of the series published by the Open University. The first paper, "Education as a Social Investment," by Vera Morris, focuses on such areas as the identification of costs and benefits, the return on the social…

A 2-day sumposium, attended by Illinois businessmen, labor leaders, educators, and government personnel, was held to: (1) define the major problems and opportunities that will challenge the State over the next 10 to 15 years, (2) clarify the State's purposes and objectives that must direct the meeting of the challenges, and (3) develop a framework…

Explores the background and context of the Australian federal government's new postcompulsory education and training policies. Examines the social, economic, and political context surrounding policy development and the "stitching together" of competing interests. The resulting policy directions, linking goals to equity issues, represent…

This article compares Austrian higher education and employment issues to those in other nations and concludes that Austria's situation is idiosyncratic. It specifically addresses university role and structure, open access, unregulated student-institution matching, individualized study structure, low proportion of graduates in the labor force,…

Policy debates and discussions have focused on two main aspects of the education system of Northern Ireland: the role of religiously segregated schools in the conflict and the link between educational attainment and labor market opportunity. Possible solutions and the role of integrated schools are explored. (SLD)

Although many factors combine to make a successful school, most people agree that quality teachers and school principals are among the most important requirements for success, especially when success is defined by the ability of the school to raise the achievement of its students. The central question for this study is how the quality of the…

In preparation for a conference held in Paris, France, in November 1994, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) launched a 5-year program that involved 20 countries studying the changing role of vocational and technical education and training (VOTEC). This background document presents an overview of policy issues and…

A theory of vocational education and training (VET) somewhat different than that currently accepted is a set of beliefs about the purpose, practices, and principles associated with producing occupational competence. VET institutions need to be aware of and responsive to work force requirements. An analysis of information about current and future…

This document presents an overview of the educational system in Greece, with particular emphasis on vocational training. The monograph is organized in eight chapters. The first two chapters contain general information and statistics on the population and employment in Greece and the economy and labor force. Chapter 3 is an overview of scholastic…

This report on a seminar on adult literacy and public policy aims to make available for discussion current significant issues in the relationship between literacy and the economy, including matters that extend well beyond the institutional boundaries of the economy. This document summarizes a presentation by Jarl Bengtsson, Head of the Centre for…

A paper analyzed the opportunities for developing a vocational energy education program under existing legislation, summarized the present status of energy-related vocational education, and addressed major issues that need resolution before energy-related vocational education can be expanded. There is a particular lack of sufficient funding for…

Describes factors contributing to 1980s expansion of adult vocational education (AE) and training in Europe, reviewing demographic, economic, political, and social factors. Discusses ramifications of emerging decentralization in educational decision making. Examines potential conflict between emphasis on economic and labor market objectives of AE…