"One of the most difficult questions in the world of public policy is what can be done to help the workforce left behind by the recent economic prosperity. Improving the Odds offers solid conclusions about what works-and what doesn't work-in government training programs."

—Peter Cappelli, Director, Center for Human Resources, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

Some of the nation's leading experts on publicly funded training examine government efforts to help disadvantaged youth and adults, welfare recipients and dislocated workers. The authors analyze the economic and social context for more than three decades of government-assisted training programs and highlight some of the critical lessons learned. They conclude that longer-term programs focussing on skills development are more likely to make a significant difference in participants' lives than programs that emphasize moving people quickly into jobs. Contributors to the book offer a range of suggestions for improvement of training programs that are particularly relevant to current programs such as the recently enacted Workforce Investment Act.

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