Many individuals contributed to this research project. First and foremost are the students and staff associated with the programs we studied. Because they participated under conditions of confidentiality, we cannot thank them by name. In every program, staff gave their valuable time to answer our numerous questions and many helped us make sure we were asking the right ones. The students took us into their confidence and provided a unique perspective of program participation. We thank them all for their interest in the study and hope that we have faithfully reported their views and insights.
Sally Ann Law assisted in the design of student surveys and interview protocols. Kim Ramsey developed the fieldwork procedures and participated in fieldwork. Conversations with Allan Collins at an early stage of the study were most helpful for developing the conceptual framework. Beth Giddens, RAND communications analyst, improved the report's organization and exposition. Donna White prepared the manuscript. David Stern and Mike Timpane provided useful feedback on an earlier draft. The reviewers of this report, Stephen Billett of Griffith University, Australia, and Carolyn Dornsife of NCRVE, greatly improved it.
This project is dedicated to the late Charles S. Benson, director of National Center for Research in Vocational Education from 1988-1992. His vision for education continues to inspire us.