Using a case study, this article identifies the factors that are important in the effective implementation of mixing self-paced and lock-step learning (a specific type of blended learning (BL)) in the context of training military technicians. Due to budget and time constraints, the training authorities in most worldwide organisations, and in…

Partnerships between community colleges and employers to create apprenticeships have been around for decades. These traditionally have covered fields like the building trades--electrical, construction and others--as well as heavy manufacturing like the automobile industry. Inspired partly by a new federal apprenticeship consortium--and $175…

In an effort to provide further insight into the individual education needs of learners within the trade and industry sector of Career and Technical Education (CTE), the authors (a) sought to identify the predominant personality type and learning style distribution of postsecondary automotive technology students, as well as (b) evaluate whether…

The strength of our nation's economy is dependent on a workforce that is highly skilled, and skilled workers are in high demand. Institutions preparing these individuals for employment have high expectations to meet. Since 1998 when the Department of Labor released the Workforce Investment Act, employers, and the nation as a whole, have been…

The U.S. automotive industry has always been a cyclical business, but its near-collapse in 2008-09 and the subsequent bankruptcy of two of the three largest domestic automakers was more than a cyclical downturn. As light vehicle sales and production slowly recover, the industry has started to hire again, though with caution. In an industry known…

Automotive Technology combines hands-on training along with a fully integrated, interactive, computerized multistationed facility. Our program is a competency based, true open-entry/open-exit program that utilizes flexible self-paced course outlines. It is designed around an industry partnership that promotes community and economic development,…

The use of plastic and fiberglass materials in the manufacture of automobiles has caused a revolution in the field of collision work. Changes have occurred in tools, techniques, materials, and in the training for auto body repair. The skills necessary for employment in this field are now easier and faster to acquire. (CT)

Major auto manufacturers have developed cooperative apprenticeship programs with community colleges, offering alternating periods of study and work experience under the supervision of master technicians. (SK)

As the use of diesel engines in motor vehicles and heavy equipment increases, the need for skilled diesel mechanics will increase. The author describes education and training needs in schools and industry, gives guidelines for trade and technical curricula, and outlines the kinds of training materials to be developed. (MF)