These five papers describe the educational system of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). An introduction by Derek Marsh overviews the climate for and aims of education in the GDR. "A Brief Introduction to the GDR" (Jean Finlayson) summarizes the economic background, standard of living, role of women, politics, religion, sports and culture, health care, and education. "Educational System of the GDR" (D. Marsh, J. Finlayson) discusses management and administration, preschool education, 10-year general polytechnical secondary schools, polytechnical education, post-16 provisions, the vocational guidance system and its organization, and apprentice training. "The Training of Teachers in the GDR" (Patrick Rooke) presents an historical background, describes training for different teachers, and reviews training at pedagogic universities and inservice training. "The Administration of Higher Education in the GDR" (Keith Ebbutt) gives a descriptive account of the administration of higher education, both nationally and institutionally. An attempt is made to show how power is distributed within this system. "Two Ideologies: The Politics of Vocational Training" (D. Marsh) draws broad comparisons between education and training in the GDR and the Federal Republic of Germany. Considerations include the roles of the federal government and the states, chambers of industry and commerce, and trade unions. A diagram of the GDR educational and training systems and a glossary are appended. (YLB)