Tech Prep/School-to-Work Partnerships: More Trends and Challenges

In 1993, 473 (55%) of the nation's 855 local tech prep consortia were surveyed regarding tech prep's goals, policies, practices, and obstacles. The 397 responding consortia (response rate, 84%) were sent follow-up surveys in 1995. Responses were obtained from 339 (85%) of the consortia. The follow-up survey revealed the following: increases in the prevalence of tech prep consortia across the nation and involvement of businesses, community-based organizations, and postsecondary education in local tech consortia; a more diversified approach to public finance of tech prep; and continued strong support for tech prep among key stakeholder groups. Among the identified lingering challenges and barriers to tech prep's implementation were the following: lack of clarity and consensus surrounding tech prep's fundamental purpose; lack of involvement by four-year colleges and universities; and lack of instructor preparation in integrating academic and vocational subject matter. It was recommended that funding for tech prep be increased and that its concept be broadened to serve all students, not just the neglected majority. (Contains 37 references. Appended are the following: aggregated responses to the 1993 Tech Prep Implementation Survey; modifications to the survey; aggregated responses to 1995 survey responses; and site profiles.) (MN)