This literature review covers research and developments in community college technical education for the years 1978 to 1981. The source for the review was Resources in Education, and materials were selected for inclusion based on the following criteria: (1) the study pertains to technical education, defined to include not only engineering technology, but also health, business, agriculture, counseling, etc.; (2) the findings have national significance; (3) the methodology is judged appropriate and thorough; (4) the reports are available; and (5) the studies are representative of research in a particular area. The paper attempts to identify research trends, major research and development activities recently completed or initiated, and the status of the research projects. The subject areas included in the review are articulation, change process/dissemination, college credit for experiential learning, cooperative education, curriculum modules, declining enrollment, follow-up and evaluation studies, general education, handicapped students, principles applied in laboratories and clinics, learning processes, minority opportunities, program planning and philosophy, surveys of business and industry, and women's education. In addition, six recommendations are presented in the areas of developing an organized body of knowledge, changing teaching and administrative processes, coordinating research, and educating researchers. An extensive bibliography is included. (KL)