Intended to provide information on applied research and development (R&D) priorities in vocational education and on the type of R&D required for each need, this report is divided into (1) an introduction to the problem and procedures, (2) a content analysis of selected documents, and (3) background papers for selected need areas. Chapter 1 discusses the problem of identifying the major needs facing vocational education, selecting those needs most amenable to R&D, and developing appropriate strategies. The procedures followed are described: content analysis of significant documents, verification with a panel of expert consultants, and the development of background papers from specialists in the needed areas selected for additional attention. Chapter 2 presents the results of that content analysis from which fifteen needs were identified. Each need is briefly defined and then documented by reference to relevant legislation and pertinent material from other sources. The eleven background papers in chapter 3 vary considerably in approach, depth, and degree to which they specify the kinds of R&D that should be directed to the needs. They raise important questions in five needs areas: coordination and articulation; curriculum content and instruction; data collection and evaluation; planning; and transition from school to work. (YLB)