Microelectronics in F. E.: Some Personal Perceptions. An Occasional Paper.

The recent microelectronics developments are having, and will continue to have, a sharp impact on various industries in Great Britain, and thus on the capacity of the Further Education System to produce qualified graduates. To maintain a high quality of education, instructors must learn of these new developments and teach them to their vocational students, who generally will require more skills to cope with changing jobs and technologies. Technology-based students need to widen their range of skills to include computer-based techniques in engineering, business and management, stores, hotels, and restaurants, public service utilities, trade unions and professional associations, and education and accrediting agencies. Universally, employers are calling for improved basic skills, such as use of good English and good mathematical skills; the ability to communicate and translate data to and from consumers; the establishment of productive work values; the ability to work effectively with others; and, a knowledge of the basic structure of industry and commerce. The need exists to bring closer together technical and basic skills, which the Further Education Programs are currently planning to accomplish. (KC)