The present study aims to bring to the reader an understanding of Venezuela's educational patterns, needs, and development within the framework of the country's economic and social situation. Much of this report is devoted to historical backgrounds --to cultural development, politics, immigration, economics, and international attitudes-- to give meaning to the facts of its educational situation. Attention is called to the numerous problems which face the educator and the government. Along every rung of the educational ladder, from the preschool on up through the university, challenges arise in all directions including the administrative, financial, curricular, and philosophical. In the final chapter, the author criticizes some phases of educational policy, educational philosophy, or the lack of carefully thought-out and balanced educational philosophy. Educational development is seen as a problem in social psychology. (SBE)