This guide provides information and guidelines intended to assist vocational administrators in developing and evaluating programs to improve the basic skills of vocational-technical students. Part one provides background information about basic skills and examines their role in vocational education. Discussed next are various program types, approaches, and staffing patterns that may be used in a basic skills program. The third part addresses the following aspects of planning for basic skills improvement: effective program planning; the planning process; students; staffing; facilities, equipment, and materials; and funding. A chapter on program implementation and criteria for evaluating program effectiveness concludes the guide. Sample forms/correspondence and activities are included in many chapters. (MN)