This guide, which is one of a series of three guides designed to provide state and local leaders, policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders with information about the work-based learning component of the School to Work Opportunities Act, deals with occupational education. The introduction traces the history of school-to-work initiatives, lists components of successful programs, and explains the guide's purpose and use. Discussed in the remaining five chapters are the following topics: work-based learning, contracted instruction, cooperative education plans, school-to-apprenticeship, and registered apprenticeships. Each chapter contains an overview of the program followed by: a description of the program type; participant outcomes; required design criteria; benefits to students, employers, and schools; keys to successful programs; credentials earned through the program; and related resource materials. Throughout the guide, special attention is given to Michigan work-based learning programs and related resource materials and resource organizations. Contains 32 references and a glossary. (MN)