Argues that a family-centered approach is as important and applicable to early care and education programs as it is to family-friendly work environments. Encourages child care settings to incorporate ideas and participation by families, providers, public sector, and private sector in order to provide high-quality services. (SD)

Discusses issues in the use of adjunct faculty in law schools, including lack of participation in intellectual dialog of the institution or in discussion of pedagogical concerns, appropriate use of adjuncts' skills, pay equity, and hiring and evaluation practices. Offers specific suggestions for departments and institutions in communicating with…

A study of 81 experienced teachers reports that to understand and survive classroom life, a knowledge of interpersonal politics was essential. The qualitative data set disclosed seven major categories of ineffective principal influences on teacher thinking and behavior: lack of participatory decision making, lack of support, favoritism,…

Empirical research pertinent to understanding the extent and effects of teacher collective bargaining in public schools in the United States is reviewed. Compensation bargaining over teacher salaries, bargaining over working conditions (grievance procedures, time, minimum fairness), and educational policy bargaining (curriculum, student placement,…

A superintendent who was nearly appointed New York City Schools chancellor explains the physical and mental stamina his job requires. Most school executives don't recognize job stresses leading to physical disorders, adverse effects on family life, and alcoholism. Since superintendents' demise usually centers on political/interpersonal conflicts,…

Discusses the feminist perspective of librarianship, including following key issues: salaries, pay equity, and occupational segregation; faculty status, professional education, and recruitment; access to information; technology; and sociology of the workplace. A number of myths relating to this topic are addressed, and a bibliography of 18 recent…

A survey of 208 full-time faculty in Nigerian higher education institutions investigated 7 factors (work, pay, promotion, supervision, coworkers, job in general, commitment) perceived as influential in faculty turnover. Results suggest a generalized dissatisfaction with conditions of service, particularly pay and promotion. Demographic variables…

Discusses trends in workplace literacy and describes environmental literacy, indicating that it includes such areas as reading, writing, mathematics, learning ability, problem solving, self-esteem, teamwork, and organizational effectiveness. Provides a methodology for conducting environmental literacy audits, selecting proper delivery methods,…

A retired library administrator discusses contemporary reference service based on his experience as a volunteer at the reference desk of an academic library. Narrative includes education; experience; work setting; training; impressions of users; knowledge acquired from fellow reference librarians; and print and electronic resources. (AEF)

Documents the development of one of the most comprehensive efforts in occupational language training in the English-speaking world, Britain's Industrial Language Training (ILT) Service. The presentation describes widespread engagement by the authors and ILT staff concerned with cross-cultural differences as they affect job-related communication…

Presents causes and symptoms of "technostress," caused by rapidly changing technology in the workplace, as well as solutions for dealing with the problem. Discusses individual and organizational strategies and the importance of communication, training, and staffing; demonstrates the need for properly allocating resources, providing…

Derailed superintendencies are a colossal waste of talent and resources. Major causes include interpersonal-relationship problems, conflict with district staff, micromanagement, and failure to make strategic decisions during transitional times. Superintendents should establish rapport with principals, build trust throughout the organization, and…

Studies suggest that computer work stations may induce high levels of physical and psychological stress. Advises school districts to take a proactive stance on ergonomics. Cites laws and pending litigation regulating computer use in the workspace and offers guidelines for computer users. (MLF)

Discusses the legal phenomenon of negligent hiring, what it is, how it has evolved, and where it will probably go. Lists ways to avoid a negligent-hiring lawsuit and provides 12 steps for reducing negligent hiring and defamation lawsuits. (MLF)

Includes 26 articles on increasing workforce quality and competitiveness, the primary task of employment and training professionals. Looks at the larger picture, strategies, and decentralized national employment and training programs internationally. Examines debate over research methods, national research, and state and local efforts. Includes…