Guide to Structure and Articulation of Occupational Education Programs (Grades 7 through 12 and Post-High School).

Overview & Synopsis

Intended as a flexible instrument, this guide suggests approaches for providing (1) meaningful occupational education throughout the junior high and high school structure, (2) opportunities for attaining entry level occupational competency in the secondary education complex, and (3) occupational education at the high school level which is appropriate to continuation beyond high school. On the basis of (1) the adoption of the occupational cluster concept which involves its grouping of occupations with identical or similar skill and knowledge requirements, (2) the implementation of a program of occupational exploration in grades 7 through 10, (3) the availability of adequate guidance and counseling, and (4) the provision of introductory courses at the ninth and 10th grade levels, a pattern of occupational education for secondary schools is suggested and approaches to organization, content, scope, and sequence of 12 cluster-based occupational curriculums are presented. The roles of high school occupational programs are identified as providing specific preparation for those who drop out and those who do not continue beyond high school, and a complementary learning experience to those who continue their occupational education. The alignment of the 12 curriculums with typical community college programs is illustrated, and the development of agriculture education from grade 9 through the community college program is presented schematically. (JK)