The Youth in Transition Survey (YITS) is a longitudinal survey that was developed over a 3-year period by Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) and Statistics Canada in consultation with provincial and territorial ministries and departments of labor and education. The YITS is designed to provide policy-relevant information about school-to-work transitions and factors influencing pathways among education, training, and work. The YITS' implementation plan encompasses a longitudinal survey for each of two cohorts, ages 15 and 18-20, to be surveyed every 2 years. The sample design for the 15-year-old cohort is a school-based frame allowing selection of schools and then individuals within schools. The sample design for the cohort aged 18-20 is similar to that of Canada's Labour Force Survey. The survey questions examine factors influencing respondents' academic achievement and educational and career aspirations and outcomes. Pilot surveys and interviews for the younger and older cohorts were conducted in April-May and January-February 2000, respectively. Data for the YITS will be collected through computer-assisted telephone interviewing. Primary results from both age cohorts are expected to be available in late 2001. (Addresses of eight project contacts are listed. Lists of the HRDC project advisory panel and 154 references are appended.) (MN)