The research division of the National Center for Research in Vocational Education received a 5-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education to conduct a research program on youth employability. To increase the use of the research findings, the National Center created the Knowledge Development and Utilization (KDU) project in 1983 as part of the grant. The basic KDU model is cyclical; throughout the process from research design to knowledge use, researchers and practitioners sustain a high level of communication and collaboration to ensure that research results get into public use. Using the model, the project staff developed, field tested, and finalized the following materials: introductory booklet and background research materials for teachers, and student booklets, instructors' guides, and videotape. Through the project, the researchers learned that (1) school-based practitioners are eager to try out new materials; (2) access is relatively easy, providing administrative approval is obtained; and (3) the field-trial version of classroom materials should closely approximate the final version. They also found that the employer database was the most compelling aspect of the school-based materials and that practitioners seem to be more interested in materials that they can get into the hands of students than in background material. Finally, the researchers point out, research utilization projects take much more time than generally thought. (KC)