This document contains three papers from a symposium on technological change and human resource development. "New Technologies, Cognitive Demands, and the Implications for Learning Theory" (Richard J. Torraco) identifies four specific characteristics of the tasks involved in using new technologies (contingent versus deterministic tasks,…

This paper explores the traditional European model of vocational training in light of a new focus on employability and lifelong learning that is becoming more common in Europe. It includes the following four sections: (1) an overview of some examples of vocational training systems in Europe and the proposal that they share enough to be considered…

The effectiveness of initial vocational education and training (VET) and support services in preparing early school leavers in Australia to negotiate an effective transition from school to adult roles was examined in a study that focused on two areas of the Central Coast of New South Wales. The following three data collection activities were used:…

A project was conducted to identify skills that vocational students will need to adapt to future changes in the workplace and jobs caused by advancing technology as well as to develop policy stands on how those skills can be imparted. Research was conducted through computer searches of relevant data bases, interviews with vocational educators and…

Because a need existed for better articulation between the metal trades programs offered at area high schools and at Blackhawk Technical Institute in Janesville, Wisconsin, a program of communication with the high schools was developed. This communication was expected to lead to a smoother transfer of students from one level of training to…

In 2001, 6,821 employers across Australia were surveyed regarding their views of vocational education and training (VET). The survey was the fourth such survey since 1995. In 2001, 80% of employers of VET graduates (compared with 83% in 1995) rated their satisfaction with VET as 6 or higher on a 10-point scale. The proportion of employees at the…

A study examined the feasibility of using case studies to convince enterprises to value training and learning. First, 10 Australian enterprises were studied in sufficient depth to construct a comprehensive picture of each enterprise, its culture, and the strategies it uses to develop the skills and knowledge of individual employees and the…

Australia introduced User Choice nationally in January 1998 to develop a national training system that is more responsive to clients' needs. User Choice is based on nine principles, including the following: (1) clients can negotiate their publicly funded training needs; (2) User Choice operates in a national training market not limited by state or…

The definition of work has undergone a massive transition within the last decade, and this trend has major implications for vocational education. Earlier ideas of work included that it was full-time, permanent, and for life; in addition, work provided opportunities for career development, a clearly-defined employer-worker relationship, and clear…

This document contains the papers from plenary sessions, forums, and panels conducted at a conference on the new forms of vocational education needed for the world economy of the 21st century. After introductory remarks and opening addresses by the Minister of Education and Science of Finland and the Acting Director of the European Commission, the…

The capabilities expected of technological workers upon entry into employment were examined. Data were collected through a review of the pertinent literature and an in-person, instrument-guided interview survey of a representative sample of representatives of approximately 250 manufacturing enterprises in nine sectors. The literature review…

This document contains the National Council on Vocational Education's recommendations for improving the effectiveness of the vocational-technical educational system. They follow a list of council members, explanations of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act and the purpose of the council, a quiz on vocational-technical education for the…

Policies and practices were identified that have led to the success of exemplary programs in adult vocational education in Ohio. Data were collected from adult vocational education personnel, students, and employers located in five exemplary planning districts. All districts had a full-time supervisor for adult programs, employed full- and…

The changing skill needs being experienced by small European firms because of increasing internationalization were examined in a survey of owners/managers and employees of 85 small manufacturing businesses in Greece, Spain, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, and the United Kingdom and case studies of an additional 16 businesses that have…

The impact of developments in work organizations on the skilling process in the United Kingdom was studied through a macro analysis of available statistical information about the development of workplace training in the United Kingdom and case studies of three U.K. firms. The macro analysis focused on the following: initial training arrangements;…