Discusses trends in workplace literacy and describes environmental literacy, indicating that it includes such areas as reading, writing, mathematics, learning ability, problem solving, self-esteem, teamwork, and organizational effectiveness. Provides a methodology for conducting environmental literacy audits, selecting proper delivery methods,…

A retired library administrator discusses contemporary reference service based on his experience as a volunteer at the reference desk of an academic library. Narrative includes education; experience; work setting; training; impressions of users; knowledge acquired from fellow reference librarians; and print and electronic resources. (AEF)

Documents the development of one of the most comprehensive efforts in occupational language training in the English-speaking world, Britain's Industrial Language Training (ILT) Service. The presentation describes widespread engagement by the authors and ILT staff concerned with cross-cultural differences as they affect job-related communication…

Presents causes and symptoms of "technostress," caused by rapidly changing technology in the workplace, as well as solutions for dealing with the problem. Discusses individual and organizational strategies and the importance of communication, training, and staffing; demonstrates the need for properly allocating resources, providing…

Derailed superintendencies are a colossal waste of talent and resources. Major causes include interpersonal-relationship problems, conflict with district staff, micromanagement, and failure to make strategic decisions during transitional times. Superintendents should establish rapport with principals, build trust throughout the organization, and…

Studies suggest that computer work stations may induce high levels of physical and psychological stress. Advises school districts to take a proactive stance on ergonomics. Cites laws and pending litigation regulating computer use in the workspace and offers guidelines for computer users. (MLF)

Discusses the legal phenomenon of negligent hiring, what it is, how it has evolved, and where it will probably go. Lists ways to avoid a negligent-hiring lawsuit and provides 12 steps for reducing negligent hiring and defamation lawsuits. (MLF)

Includes 26 articles on increasing workforce quality and competitiveness, the primary task of employment and training professionals. Looks at the larger picture, strategies, and decentralized national employment and training programs internationally. Examines debate over research methods, national research, and state and local efforts. Includes…

Drawing on native/non-native speaker discourse data from goal-oriented interaction in Australian workplaces, it is argued that modality is inherently a centrally important function in such discussions, and that appropriately nuanced expression of modality is often crucial to "getting the job done," and that emphasis should be given to…

Four prerequisites for college and university departmental change and renewal have been suggested: dedication to teamwork; collective dialog and inquiry about effective teaching; commitment to quality control and rewarding collective goals; and leadership of a purposeful chair. These are discussed in relation to conditions mitigating against…

Examines the ways that academic department chairs cope with the demanding and often contradictory roles they must assume. Discusses the challenge of allocating resources among faculty members and simultaneously maintaining collegiality. Presents data culled from interviews with 23 current and former department chairs. (MJP)

Examines principles of computer-based instructional design found in performance improvement/human resources development literature and their applicability to adult learning in the workplace. Topics include learner control, feedback, screen design, use of group methods, and computer anxiety. Contains 93 references. (JMV)

Using a nationally representative sample of college faculty from a wide array of science disciplines, this study investigates links between organizational conditions and women's representation on college faculties. Results indicate that although the female doctoral labor supply and political constraints are powerful factors in representation,…

A survey of 10 national systems of higher education found that less than 10 percent of professors were women, and the proportion of female professors was negatively related to institutional prestige. This academic "glass ceiling" was related to women's shorter careers, tenure issues during hard times, and women's lower level of academic…

Analyzes available data to determine the validity of explanations offered for the shortage of qualified academic librarians. Highlights include recruiting academic/ research librarians; library school enrollment trends; placement data; future possibilities; salary and working conditions; and professional issues. (Contains 50 references.)…