Alternatives in Vocational Teacher Education.

Overview & Synopsis

Alternatives in vocational education personnel development may be considered for four areas: alternative audiences, alternative programs, alternative approaches, and alternative settings. Two major surveys of personnel development needs provide some data to use as a starting point for looking at alternative audiences. A 1979 study concluded that respondents showed a marked interest in staff development activities aimed at improving and strengthening vocational education's role by using business, industry, and labor resources; economic development and job creation; and improving students' school to work transition. They showed a preference for activities to strengthen and expand program development, planning, and evaluation skills in-state (rather than out-of-state). Overall staff development needs were for increasing effectiveness and delivery of vocational education. A 1980 assessment of vocational education teachers personnel development needs found that over 70% indicated need for (1) teacher education or inservice education, (2) information or services in working with special needs students, (3) help related to instructional techniques and curriculum development, (4) labor market supply-demand information, (5) state and federal legislation information, (6) help in conducting followup studies, and (7) youth unemployment information. (Two alternative programs are briefly described, and a short list of alternatives are provided.) (YLB)