Cooperative education could play a role in education for sustainability, which has evolved from environmental education. Three modes for integrating them are learning about education for sustainability in the workplace, teaching the workplace about education for sustainability, and integrating education for sustainability and cooperative…

Comparison of five Thai students in international work placements and three overseas students completing work placements in Thailand found that both groups encountered difficulties with immigration, language, and communication. Advantages reported included improved self-confidence and career enhancement. Results also show the effect of cultural…

A case study of a science-technology major illustrates the thinking and praxis changes that occurred in cooperative work placements. He became enculturated to research science through his experience in communities of practice. (Contains 30 references.) (SK)

Employers (154 of 1,303 responded) rated 25 entry-worker competencies and new graduates' performance. Eight of the top 10 were "soft" skills; ability and willingness to learn ranked highest. Graduates' performance was satisfactory only in 3 that were not in the top 10. Most employers (79%) felt that prior work experience was important for new…

Examination of methods of assessing teaching practica resulted in the following recommendations for other work-based learning programs: (1) identify whether the purpose is technical competence, professional artistry, or both; (2) determine the objectives for work placements; (3) identify the roles of academic and industry staff; and (4) determine…

Evaluation of Riyadh College of Technology's cooperative education program by employers, faculty, and students found all groups were positive but the rapid growth in enrollments has created a number of challenges, such as the difficulty in securing work placements in private sector companies and a shortage of financial resources and staff. (SK)

New Zealand business students and graduates made similar rankings of the five most important workplace competencies: computer literacy, customer service orientation, teamwork and cooperation, self-confidence, and willingness to learn. Graduates placed greater importance on most of the 24 competencies, resulting in a statistically significant…

Cooperative education, in the form or practicums, forms an essential part of teacher training and is the means by which academic content or professional knowledge gains value. A more holistic approach to teacher education would include cooperative education. Research into cooperative education likewise needs to be developed via a holistic approach…

Examines the implementation of the New Zealand Qualifications Framework, with emphasis on the relationship between educational institutions and industry partner organizations. Argues that government policy must consider the differing skills of industry and education and not create an imbalance in power that inhibits effective implementation of…

Both quantitative and qualitative methodologies have advantages and disadvantages. Choice of methodology should be determined by the nature of the research objectives. Cooperative education researchers should consider qualitative or combined-methodology inquiries including interviews and action research. (SK)