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As with any new theory, it is necessary to validate the basic construct of vocational maturity. Once this is done, instruments to measure vocational maturity, or decision making, can be evaluated. With this as an objective, this paper discusses some of the problems associated with measuring vocational maturity, such as identifying variables, methods of data collection, and item selection procedures. The selection and definition of related vocational maturity variables is complicated by the lack of a well-defined taxonomy. Choice of methodology is difficulty, since three approaches have been used in previous data gathering--the partially structured interview, the structured interview, and fixed alternative questions. The paper also examines the basic assumptions regarding vocational maturity as well as validation by internal and external evidence. Validation by internal evidence is discussed in terms of the four dimensions of Crites' model: (1)Consistency of Vocational Choice, (2) Wisdom of Vocational Choice, (3) Vocational Choice Competencies, and (4) Vocational Choice Attitudes. Validation by external evidence presents problems in that the existing data regarding external evidence is somewhat limited at the present time. (JS)

THIS REPORT DEALS WITH THE ORGANIZATION, RATIONALE, METHODS AND EXPECTED END-PRODUCTS OF A RESEARCH PROJECT (SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION ON JUNE 23, 1970) FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND VALIDATION OF A RELIABLE VOCATIONAL MATURITY MEASURE (VMM). THE PROJECT'S EIGHT PHASES AND ACTIVITIES ARE EXPLAINED. THE PROJECT ASSUMES--(1) THE INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIETY AS A WHOLE SUFFER FROM UNWISE EDUCATIONAL AND VOCATIONAL CHOICES, (2) THESE CHOICES ARE RELATED TO VOCATIONAL MATURITY, AND (3) A NEED EXISTS FOR BETTER MEASURES OF VOCATIONAL MATURITY. THE PROJECT STAFF WILL ADMINISTER, TO REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLES OF SOUTHERN PUBLIC SCHOOL PUPILS IN GRADES EIGHT-12, THREE TESTS--(1) THE TRYOUT FORM OF THE VMM, (2) THE PRELIMINARY FORM, AND (3) THE FINAL FORM. AFTER ALL THE DATA IS ANALYZED, A FINAL REPORT WILL GIVE AN ACCOUNT OF THE PROJECT AND WILL INCLUDE THE VMM, AN ADMINISTRATOR'S MANUAL, AND A TECHNICAL MANUAL OF NORMATIVE DATA FOR THE VMM. IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE VMM WILL AID IN--(1) EVALUATING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS WHICH INCLUDE VOCATIONAL EXPLORATION AS A MAJOR COMPONENT, (2) INCREASING UNDERSTANDING OF THE CONSTRUCT OF VOCATIONAL MATURITY, (3) IDENTIFYING PUPILS WHO NEED SPECIAL ASSISTANCE IN VOCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND (4) EVALUATING PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH VOCATIONAL EXPLORATORY EXPERIENCES. (RD)