Intended for use by educators and the public, this report interprets the findings of two research studies on competency-based vocational education (CBVE) in Kentucky secondary schools: "The Development of an Instrument to Measure Student Attitudes toward Competency-Based Individualized Instructional Modules," by John C. Thomas, and "CBVE: A Study to Measure Its Effectiveness in Kentucky," by the Bureau of Vocational Teacher Education at Western Kentucky University. First, the history and background of Kentucky CBVE are given, including a rationale for its implementation, a description of the model delivery system currently being developed to provide CBVE statewide, lists of general goals and specific objectives for 1976-78, and a summary of progress since 1976. The next section describes the two research studies, and makes recommendations for future research based on their conclusion that CBVE enables students to learn more, learn faster, and perform skills at a higher level. A more detailed analysis of the studies' data is given in subsequent sections, delineating sample populations, statistical validity, and types of survey questions. The last section deals with the instructional modules that are being developed to serve as a delivery system for CBVE in nine occupational areas (bank teller, secretary, tractor mechanics, food preparation, cashier-checker, auto body, child care, machine shop, and carpentry). (ELG)