The Use of Workforce Assessment as a Component of Career and Technical Education Program Evaluation

Abstract

This research project examined the extent to which career and technical education (CTE)-related programs use workforce needs assessment as a component of their evaluation activities. An employer perspective was used to develop a conceptual framework drawing on strategic human resource management theory. The extent and methods utilized for workforce needs assessment activities associated with a national CTE program were examined using data from the annual evaluation study of the Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program funded by the National Science Foundation. The findings showed that only one-half of the ATE projects with a specific CTE occupational focus engaged in workforce needs assessment. The most frequently reported approach for workforce assessment was the use of secondary data from existing sources. The use of primary data collected from business and industry as well as other constituent groups was examined in more detail. The most frequently used primary methods for workforce needs assessment were advisory committees followed by gathering anecdotal information and the use of formal and structured survey questionnaires and interviews. Recommendations are made for the expanded use of workforce needs analysis in CTE policy, practice, and research.