1. http://www.aflcio.org

The American Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) was formed in 1955. It is the voluntary federation of America’s unions and currently represents over 13 million individuals nationwide. The stated mission of the AFL-CIO claims it wishes to "bring social and economic justice to our nation by enabling working people to have a voice on the job, in government, in a changing global economy, and in their communities." Today’s unions include manufacturing and construction workers, teachers and technicians, as well as every type of worker in between.

Thoroughly explore this extensive Website. Prepare a two-page report that answers the following questions. Identify the major goals and strategies of the AFL-CIO. Is the AFL-CIO considered in and of itself a labor union? Explain. Describe unfair labor practices that can occur on the part of the employers and on the part of labor unions. What similarities and what differences are there in unfair practices between unions and employers? Describe the organizing process, as it would occur within an organization. What is your opinion of labor unions? Why do you feel this way?

2. http://www.bls.gov/cba

Explore this Bureau of Labor Statistics site. What type of information is available for collective bargaining? How can employers utilize this information? How can Unions utilize this information? What types of information do you believe may be more useful? Explain. Prepare a two-page report for discussion in class.