Occupational Analysis: A Basis for Curriculum Development and Evaluation.

In an effort to develop curricula to meet the occupational training needs identified in a 1978 survey of area business leaders, Broward Community College (BCC) undertook a research project designed to: (1) determine the occupational areas that were in greatest need of vocational training programs; (2) identify the job-level competencies for the areas with highest priority; and (3) make recommendations for the implementation of new occupational programs and/or courses. The project report first details the process by which the project staff, in coordination with the Broward County Personnel Association, identified the six occupational areas in most need of community college curricula to support them: business data processing programmer; construction secretary; engineering drafting; electronic technician; head nurse management; and insurance secretary. The survey and interview techniques that were used to identify job requirements and competencies are then detailed, from both the perspective of the supervisors and the employees. The report then discusses the findings for each occupational area, including minimum education required, criteria for promotion, descriptions of job tasks in order of their importance, and recommendations for changes in BCC's curricula. The report includes a review of the literature dealing with occupational curricula at community colleges. (JP)