Project BABS [microform] : Bilingual Academic and Business Skills. O.E.E. Evaluation Report, 1982-1983 / Deborah Inman and Robert Schulman

Project BABS, in the second of a three year funding cycle, provided career counseling and job internships with business enterprises, in addition to a computerized reading program, to approximately 600 limited English proficient (LEP) students. The students--of Chinese/Vietnamese, Greek, Russian, and Hispanic descent--attended four New York City high schools. The major instructional objectives of the program were to provide participating students with instruction leading to the development of basic skills in both English and the native language; to develop students' business and secretarial skills; and to allow students to apply those skills in after-school or summer job internships with local businesses. Title VII funds supported all program staff positions. Due to efforts of the job developer and the curriculum specialists, 12 program students were able to serve as interns with various businesses and agencies during summer 1983. In addition, these staff members met with school personnel and students and gave class presentations dealing with career orientation. Curriculum development efforts also were carried out. Parental involvement, on the other hand, did not reach expected levels. Analysis of student achievement indicated variable levels of attainment of program goals. Data were not available, however, for all students at every high school. Finally, a number of problems were noted in the areas of staffing, use of the computer, program coordination, student scheduling, and inservice teacher training. (GC)