One-third of the waking hours of many Americans is spent at work. The work they do determines to a large extent their self-image, economic security and well being, satisfaction in life, status in the community, contribution to society, and their children's view of work and life in general. Of such importance is work that it should be taught and studied by every member of society. This review and synthesis was developed to bring together the current and diverse viewpoints concerning the meaning and value of work in American society. Vocational and technical education is charged with much of the responsibility for preparing people for work. The better the concept of work is extended and understood by vocational and technical education the more satisfying and self-fulfilling one's life will be. The specifics covered in this document are: Ambiguity in the Meaning, Value, and Definition of Work; Historical Perspectives on the Meaning and Value of Work; Current Perspectives on the Meaning and Value of Work; Leisure and the Meaning and Value of Work; Job Satisfaction, Productivity, and the Meaning and Value of Work; and Selected Research Studies. A final section discusses trends and implications and is followed by a 22-page bibliography. (DS)