Futurism in Vocational Education.

Overview & Synopsis

Vocational education is likely to change dramatically as society as a whole continues to change in the future. Research conducted by vocational education specialists will likely result in a new scope and sequence of vocational instruction. New theories of vocational education will be developed, as will new instructional methods based on these theories. As vocational education becomes an increasing integral part of society, its objectives will reflect the needs of society's work force and learning activities will become more varied than ever before. Better means of diagnosing student learning difficulties and improved procedures for appraising vocational education students' progress will be in evidence. Instructors will likely complete master's degrees requirements in order to teach vocational education. In regard to inservice teacher education, the following are needed: instructor-conducted research, particularly on ways of improving course content; independent study projects for instructors; videotape training materials for teachers; regional planning meetings; and ample opportunities for discussions with others in their professions, including team planning sessions; paid sabbaticals; and libraries geared specifically to the needs of vocational education teachers. (MN)