In all societies, there is a new interest in the education of women, their role in society, and their place in the economy. Western societies have moved away from single-sex education in the past few decades, but recent research and experience has begun to highlight again the value of single-sex colleges and schools. Changes in working patterns and in the structure of a modern economy have created a demand for a fully educated workforce of men and women capable of contributing to a knowledge-based economy. The enhanced status of women in work and the professions has exacted a high price in terms of the stress on individual women and families. New ways must be found to educate women in ways that help them make a full contribution in the economy, without losing their traditional feminine strengths. Single-sex women's colleges have a particularly strong contribution to make, recognizing the distinct pattern of women's lives and offering role models of success to give confidence and self-esteem to women. Women and girls perform better in key subjects like math, science, and technology when they study alongside other women. Men and boys also should have a choice of single-sex education if they so desire. (KC)