This monograph was begun in the process of preparing "Career Education: A Handbook for Implementation" (available as VT 015 021 in this issue) to accompany a film and slide-tape presentation as the basis for a national series of U.S. Office of Education-sponsored conferences to introduce the career education concept to lay audiences. However, due to its length and because the information was of value to a larger audience, it has been published as a separate monograph. Prepared by leaders in the educational field, the information is designed to provide answers to questions concerning: (1) the nature of career education, including the philosophy behind it and major concepts, components, phases, and issues associated with it, (2) the need for career education, including the relationship between social unrest and lack of emphasis on career education and the achievements and deficiencies in American education, (3) how career education developed and is being implemented in practice, (4) appropriate strategies of implementation for a school system interested in career education, and (5) the potential contribution of career education, including basic changes that will be necessary at all educational levels. A selected bibliography on career education is included. (SB)