President Wilson appointed the Commission on National Aid to Vocational Education. The committee was to study the issue of federal aid and vocational education. Cooperative extension programs in agriculture and home economics as well as the notion of federal-state matching of funds were initiated under the Smith-Lever Act.

John Dewey's ideas of progressive education were conveyed in his book "Democracy and Education." Dewey advocated vocational education in order to help individuals understand the nature of society and work. He felt once this is accomplished, individuals gain a better social understanding. He supported programs centered on problem-solving and activities.

The Smith-Hughes Act was passed with the assistance of the Commission on National Aid. This act authorized federal funding for secondary and postsecondary vocational training in agriculture, home economics, trades, industry, and vocational teacher training.

Non-military disabled individuals in civil employment acquired rehabilitation programs under the Smith-Bankhead Act. Industrially disabled individuals could receive rehabilitation programs by the Smith-Fess Act.