Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to: (1) examine the relationship between the factors and/or elements that characterize the implementation of Tech Prep programs and (2) develop an implementation template that would provide consortia coordinators with a process and procedural guide for Tech Prep program implementation. The design of the Tech Prep implementation template will assist administrators in understanding the basic elements needed to successfully implement Tech Prep Programs. Conceptual framework. The wealth of ideas, energy, and vision of the finest minds in education, business, technology, public leadership, social services, science, and the humanities is striving to break the one-size-fits-all educational approach. The Tech Prep program fosters a curriculum that encourages schools to help students acquire needed skills to become productive mature adults while fostering workforce skills among its participants (Hull and Parnell 1993; Reich 1994). Methodology. The descriptive method of research was utilized to determine what other Tech Prep practitioners are doing with similar problems or situations so that others may benefit from their experience in making future plans and decisions. Correlational research was also used to permit measurement of several variables and their interrelationships. This study used a questionnaire and an interview method in order to apply a triangular method of measure. Findings. The research findings indicated that enthusiasm was high among teachers, and that the meeting preference for both coordinators and the director was quarterly. However, these findings indicate that new consortia coordinators need to learn more about the resources that are available to them, indicating that scheduled meetings for less experienced coordinators might be held more frequently. The financial resources that are earmarked for instructional materials cannot be spent on equipment. In order to have articulation between high schools and colleges there must be a great deal of collaboration between academic and vocational teachers. Conclusions and recommendations. The method will serve the purpose of determining what other Tech Prep practitioners are doing with similar problems or situations so that others may benefit from their experience in making future plans and decisions.