Causal Analysis of Reduced Occupational Education Enrollments and Course Offerings.

Overview & Synopsis

A study was conducted to determine the causes contributing to the decline in occupational education enrollments and course offerings in Washoe County, Clark County, and Carson City School Districts in Nevada. Mailed or personally administered surveys were given to a sample of 1,454 high-school students from the school districts. Responses were received from 1,438 of the students, and from 331 parents, 154 teachers, and at least one administrator in each school (a total of 29). Some of the extensive findings were as follows: (1) both parents and students have a generally positive attitude toward vocational education and vocational students; (2) students cited interest in vocational classes as the strongest motivating factor in their enrollment; (3) parents felt that some vocational education would provide everyday or job skills for their children; (4) the majority of parents felt that vocational education was fulfilling its purpose adequately or better; and (5) teachers and administrators reported more positive than negative factors influencing vocational education. Recommendations were made to make vocational education more accessible to students and to market vocational education to students and parents. (This document contains 34 tables, as well as the survey forms and summaries of responses.) (KC)