This paper focuses on successes and failures in the history of technology. It attempts to assess the wisdom of possible future courses of action with regard to technology in e-learning and education.

The Foundation Degree (FD) is a work-related, intermediate-level higher education qualification. Issues around its recognition can affect success in attracting students where the literature suggests that uptake should be adequate. This research represented a case study which explored for the first time, whether the above applied to the FD for…

Uses the example of a diploma in religious education course to explore what constitutes action learning. Concludes that, since students do not set their own agenda for growth and change and do not work on genuine problems resulting in real-world action, it is not action learning. However, experiential opportunities to challenge existing belief…

Universities, being asked to train academic staff in teaching methodology, are confronted with the need to balance competency-based training and academic education, to avoid overloading staff time, and to reconcile internal and external requirements. Scotland's Robert Gordon University has found ways to deal with these competing demands. (SK)

In the United Kingdom, only 22% of all information technology (IT) workers and only 4% of all IT managers are women. Initiatives to attract females to IT careers include exposure to computer-based activities at an early age through the National Curriculum. (SK)

Task-based learning (TBL) is a method used to develop transferable skills in radiography students. It involves developing in-depth understanding of concepts and mechanisms underlying tasks as well as capability to perform them. TBL forms the basis of clinical practice modules that contextualize knowledge. (Contains 23 references.) (SK)

This overview of the Irish educational system examines vocational education and training, the role of the European Union, legislative measures, and institutional reforms. The following challenges are discussed: economic infrastructure, skill shortages, and the inclusiveness of the educational system. (SK)

Discusses the objectives of the British Council for Industry and Higher Education. Issues covered include (1) partnership between industry and higher education to develop a qualified labor force, (2) continuing higher education for nontraditional students, and (3) teaching as a corporate concern. (CH)

Conventional secretarial courses typically use competency-based approaches. The author argues that these approaches are not appropriate for providing higher-level secretarial students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed for new employment roles. The purpose of secretarial education is discussed, as well as the need for management…

In Europe, the numbers of women in higher education have increased, there is more co-education at elementary-secondary schools, and girls have comparable educational achievement. However, their achievement varies by subject area, stereotypes still seem to influence subject choices, and women suffer more unemployment than men with the same…

Considerations regarding the selection, training, and use of surrogate parents for handicapped children are reviewed. Legislative, regulatory, and policy-related factors are noted. (CL)

The influence of the Scottish Vocational Qualifications initiative, the changing workplace, and accountability demands is spurring growth in adult vocational guidance in Scotland. Local guidance networks are forming, and the need for specialized counselor training is growing. (SK)

The attempt to bring all postsecondary qualifications into a single qualifications framework has not been without a struggle between the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and the universities. The resolution of these issues has implications for policy developments in Britain. (SK)