Specific examples of competency-based vocational education programs in the United States demonstrate the advantages of the method in training youth and adults. The British New Training Initiative, Youth Training Scheme, and open tech concept additionally support the effectiveness of competency-based programs and self-paced learning materials. (SK)

A study was undertaken to develop a profile of department and division chairs appointed during the 1995-96 academic year in Texas institutions of higher education. Survey results were used to determine chairs' perceptions of the transition process into their new roles and to find methods to facilitate that transition. Questionnaires were…

This document argues that regions that sustain economic growth or recover rapidly from economic slumps are often the same communities that have aggressively developed and continue to strengthen collaborations with business and industry, universities, community colleges, high schools, and other key public and private sector entities. In San Diego…

Describes a survey of 105 social science chairpersons in rural community colleges conducted to determine respondents' characteristics, responsibilities, and perceptions of the most valuable sources of training for 15 administrative and instructional leadership responsibilities. Experience was considered to be the most valuable source of training.…

Examines the impact of community college programs on business and industry through the preparation of a trained labor force. Notes existing partnerships between industry and postsecondary education, but concludes that new linkages are necessary if community colleges are to provide leadership for change through labor and industrial development…

Compares the earnings of technicians who have an Associate degree to the earnings of technicians who have other educational backgrounds. Discusses several other variables: training and experience; and the impact of sex, race, socioeconomic background, location of residence, and type of employer. (CT)

Describes Honolulu Community College's Providing Options for Neglected Adults Program which prepares developmentally disabled adults for employment outside of sheltered workshops. Examines the need for such programs, the students' progress during 1979-80 and three program components--noncredit courses, work experiences, and student-peer support.…

Considers the role of community colleges in emerging school-to-work (STW) transition systems, focusing on school-based learning, work-based learning, and connecting activities. Argues that community colleges have long provided students with work-related learning, but that efforts should be made to document these outcomes. Reviews future…

Discusses a program developed to assist displaced workers in a small town in Arkansas after a uniform-manufacturing company shut down and moved to Mexico, leaving nearly 200 unskilled workers unemployed. Reports that almost 100 of the workers became community college students through a cooperative program that involved the schools, the state, the…

Examines the sustainability of technological innovation in community colleges. Reports on a Web-based survey that was followed up with site visits, which revealed that innovation was sustained by sharing power with collaborative partners, designing flexible programs, rewarding professional development, and using program data for marketing. Makes…

Highlights the importance of developing community college leaders capable of demonstrating strategic leadership and responding to the global forces that influence community college education. Discusses the Consortium for Community College Development's Strategic Leadership Forum and its principles, format, content, and early results. (RC)

Identifies employee skills needed by U.S. business/industry: generic skills (e.g., reading, writing, computation, problem solving), relational skills (e.g., ability to work better and in more sophisticated ways with diverse groups); responsibility skills (e.g., taking initiative in learning); and integration skills (e.g., ability to make meaning…

Warns against the dangers of an undertrained work force and suggests that continuing education play a stronger role in worker training. Suggests an ideal set of continuing education offerings, with units focusing on workplace training, further professional training, and programs to address special community needs. (DMM)

Identifies the economic conditions mandating a strong role for community colleges in economic development. Describes Belmont Technical College's (OH) efforts to revitalize the local economy by expanding its mining technology program, redeveloping abandoned land, and retraining displaced steel workers. Urges colleges to explore nontraditional…

In this interview with the Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Employment and Training Administration (ETA), the following issues are covered: workforce development, new areas of focus, transition from the old to the new system, community colleges and the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), short-term and long-term challenges, and other initiatives.…