The aim of this research project has been to map the range of perceptions of a sample of people concerning business in partnership with education. From the range of perceptions held by the participants in this dissertation, we can conclude that partnering is not a simple matter of two parties agreeing to some workable union between them for mutual benefits. Business-education partnerships are complex arrangements. The systems of business and education are comprised of factors that influence both the approach to, and the set up of, partnership arrangements. The failure of business-education partnerships is far more complex than to be caused solely by questionable business motives and practices. From the perceptions of the participants in this study it is evident that education alone in partnerships is a matter interpreted differently by its various stakeholders and practitioners. There are convergent and divergent perceptions that affect both education and its partnerships. A greater understanding of these points of view and the factors highlighted by the participants arguably provide the best starting place for dialogue between business and education about partnering benefits, drawbacks and possibilities. And finally I suggest that systemic thinking principles be used to coordinate these viewpoints and make for collaboration, and not merely sufferance. Six appendixes present: (1) Education and Business Coalitions Research Participant Consent Form; (2) Questionnaire and Interview Schedule; (3) General Chart of Types of Education Partnerships; (4) Workplace Characteristics; (5) Systemic Questions to Ponder Prior to Partnering; and (6) Culture: A Brief Discussion. (Contains 1 table and 63 footnotes.)