Prior research indicates that future workers will not possess enough training to contribute to a robust U.S. labor market, especially in "middle-skill" roles that require some postsecondary education but not a 4-year degree. At the same time, the last 30 years have borne witness to an increased likelihood that middle-skill individuals…

Policymakers are interested in extending federal higher education dollars to programs fewer than 15 weeks. This analysis shares key facts about the outcomes and equity implications of very-short-term (15 weeks or fewer) programs. This analysis of nationally representative survey data from the Adult Training and Education Survey, combined with…

This article contributes to the comparative literature on the growing role of "validation of prior learning," by analyzing the emergence and implementation of VPL in North Macedonia. Based on documents and qualitative interviews, the article provides an historical- institutionalist perspective on these processes. The article argues that…

Many good jobs have "middle skill" requirements that can be met through post-high school, non-degree training. This often takes the form of short-term education and training programs that lead to an industry-recognized credential. The best designed short-term programs are embedded in a longer-term career pathway program, enabling…

Many have heard calls from national policy experts, the Obama administration, and influential foundations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Lumina Foundation for Education to increase the number of Americans with postsecondary credentials earned at community colleges by 5 million within 10 years. If community colleges choose to…

This report represents one facet of a larger statewide higher education needs assessment that was produced by the HECB in October 2005, also in response to HB 3103. In contrast to the larger statewide assessment, which examines employer, community and student demands for education and training at the baccalaureate level and above, the following…

The author takes issue with the National Institute of Education-sponsored report, "Involvement in Learning: Realizing the Potential of American Higher Education," saying that it belittles the importance of occupational education. He argues for the value of specialization to secure immediate employment versus the vaguer goals of liberal…

This publication identifies and discusses crucial issues related to the role of credentialling and certification procedures in the functioning of educational systems. Part 1 analyzes in detail selection and credentialling practices as they affect the functions and objectives of the various levels of formal education systems. Part 2 focuses on the…

Presents an excerpt from the book, Help Wanted...Credentials Required: Community Colleges in the Knowledge Economy. States that credentials are now highly sought after by many employees, and community colleges must balance between providing a good education/training and the economic strain of doing so. Discusses changes in the trends of higher…

This study examined the current value of credentialism, extending the findings of an earlier report, "Business Training: Content, Enrollment and Delivery." The study acknowledged the distinction between various types of credentials, but focused primarily on professional business certification and investigated the potential for TVOntario…

The project's purpose of eliminating major obstacles blocking career advancement of human service paraprofessionals was achieved through a developed model allowing new options for upgrading workers in three occupations: Addiction services, child development, and occupational therapy. The policies and practices of educational institutions,…

Experiential Learning graduate credits are awarded to students enrolled in the Institute for Personal and Career Development (IPCD) graduate programs for knowledge acquired from on-the-job training, on-the-job experiences, non-university workshops, other vocation-related experiences, or avocational achievemnts. These experiences and achievements…