In a rapidly changing 21st-century economy with growing competition from abroad, continuing to field a world-leading, skilled workforce is both more essential and more challenging than ever to the mission of delivering increasing prosperity for American families and preserving this nation's economic leadership. The US must therefore confront its…

Swiss society is ageing. At the same time, life expectancy is increasing. With most workers retiring around age 65, time in retirement is growing and the ratio of retirees to employees is set to soar. These developments bring a range of opportunities but will likely weigh on growth in GDP per capita and increase public spending. They may also…

In a rapidly changing 21st-century economy with growing competition from abroad, continuing to field a world-leading, skilled workforce is both more essential and more challenging than ever to the mission of delivering increasing prosperity for American families and preserving our nation's economic leadership. The US must therefore confront its…

This issue of "Policy Insights" provides a review of the past five years of the cost and value of higher education, which have gained increased policymaker, consumer, and media attention. The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) has worked with four of its member states (Hawai'i, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington) to…

What directions should workforce policy in the U.S. take over the next few decades in light of major labor market developments that will likely occur--such as the retirements of baby boomers and continuing globalization? This new volume edited by Harry J. Holzer and Demetra Smith Nightingale presents fresh thoughts on the topic. This book offers…

Examines the dynamics of the aging process, the employment situation facing older Japanese workers, and changes in age-related employment and wage practices. (SK)

The shift in age mix due to the baby boom of the 1950s will have a striking effect on the labor force. Since much of the nation's welfare is linked to human resources (and adults are an increasingly important part of that resource) vocational education will be called upon to help meet that need. (SSH)

Examines the prospects of a labor deficiency in the United States in the next two decades and suggests policy alternatives which will aid the difficult transition from a high unemployment to a labor deficient economy. (Author)

SIXTY-SEVEN REPRESENTATIVES OF EDUCATION, LABOR, BUSINESS AND GOVERNMENT AGENCIES PARTICIPATED IN THE CONFERENCE SPONSORED BY THE INDIANA MANPOWER RESEARCH ASSOCIATION WHOSE OBJECTIVES ARE TO FURTHER RESEARCH EFFORTS AND TO FACILITATE OPTIMUM USE OF RESEARCH RESULTS BY COORDINATING EFFORTS AND DISSEMINATING REPORTS, STUDIES, DATA, AND INFORMATION…

First-generation immigrants play a crucial role in the U.S. economy, but despite their pivotal role many immigrant workers confront enormous challenges in the labor force. The immigrant population increased from 19.8 million in 1990 to 31.1 million in 2000, comprising 11.1% of the U.S. population and 12.4% of the nation's workforce. Immigrants are…

Implications of current economic, social, and educational trends for proprietary schools are (1) increased emphasis on lifelong education; (2) need for special support for at-risk groups; (3) imperative for school-business partnerships; (4) increased competition in postsecondary education; and (5) need for better institutional planning and…

Immigration to the United States has fluctuated considerably over the course of the nation's history and has elicited various policy responses at different times. In recent years, concern about undocumented, illegal immigration has given rise to efforts to reform immigration law. The Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986 was intended…

This book provides an overview of economic trends and social issues in the 13 states and 399 counties of Appalachia, with emphasis on implications for families, children, and communities. It places the trends and issues of the Appalachian region within a national context. These trends include declining employment opportunities and wages, increased…

America's growing Asian population is comprised of strikingly diverse ethnic groups. Although many Asian immigrants have achieved academic and economic success, there remain barriers to full participation by Asians in American society. A greater understanding of Asian Americans and their cultures would benefit us all. (Author/BJV)

The social policy implications of demographic trends are examined, to help policy makers anticipate future needs for services with greater accuracy. Crises such as energy needs and social security financing illustrate the need for greater recognition of the time dimension of public policy. Many of our most difficult problems, if they are to be…