This review of technical education research and development examines the literature, highlights the applications of research and development, and establishes priorities for future research and development. It is also designed to provide relevant information on definitions and sources pertaining to technical education so that the novice in the field can obtain a broad overview and perspective. Intended for both practitioners and researchers, the review serves as an aid for identifying people, sources, and information. It also provides an overview that is helpful in appraising the current state of the research, identifying trends, and planning research. Significant research from 1968 through 1978 is included. The following areas (with sample sub-areas) are included: program administration--planning, management, evaluation (articulation, accreditation, decision systems, manpower supply, perceptions toward technical education, evaluation, self-study); curriculum development and implementation (computer instruction, task analysis, curriculum planning and change, technological literacy, humanities curricula, mathematics curriculum, performance-based instruction, individualized instruction); student needs and characteristics (enrollments, attrition, mobility, follow-up studies, needs assessment, handicapped students); staff--selection, development, and evaluation (teacher education, credentialing, administrator staffing needs, retired technicians); and research procedures and practices (job selection patterns, research priorities, military research, research matrix). A list of references is appended. (CT)