Document imaging, a technology that transforms printed text, figures, and pictures into computer-accessible forms, may be offered as a solution to document management problems involving space and personnel. Administrators and planners should understand relevant issues, considerations, difficulties, and options. Examples are drawn from the…

It is proposed that the primary method for college budget reduction should be horizontal, across-the-board cuts by percentage applied to all programs and departments. It is argued further that vertical budget cuts embody imperfect procedural justice and should be considered only in extreme situations. (MSE)

This book contains the proceedings of the Third Topical Conference of Department Chairs in Physics. Topics of the papers summarized include: (1) research centers sponsored by the National Science Foundation; (2) physics programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels; (3) the use of accelerators in education and research; (4) approaches to…

University department chairs need to manage stress to their advantage. Myths pertaining to stress include: (1) stress is harmful; (2) stress should be avoided; (3) stress correlates with level of responsibility; (4) stress is predominantly a male phenomenon; and (5) there is one appropriate coping method. The Chair Stress Cycle provides a broad…

Reasons why it is difficult for deans and department heads to be creative are identified. While some deans and department heads are not creative in thinking and acting, others are creative but their creativity is not readily discernible. Their work is often slow and undramatic, consisting of tasks such as gradual position reallocations and shifts…

Heads of departments may find themselves in a counseling role both for staff and for students. Counseling in any department within a college requires skill and sensitivity to meet the needs of students and staff. Heads of departments may be faced with a variety of problems: students who complain about a staff member; scholastic failure or…

This study identified computer objectives based on recommendations of the authoritative accounting bodies, determined whether the typical introductory computer course has these same objectives, and examined the influence of the academic department responsible for teaching the course. Relationships between department and course objectives,…

A division of chemical education has been created within the chemistry department at Purdue University. The nature of chemical education, impediments to research and development in chemical education, and future directions of the division are discussed. (JN)

Suggests that academic departments reshape the intellectual climate for chemistry education as one way to ensure the future of chemistry. Current practices in chemistry and possible benefits which may result if the system is modified are examined. These benefits include better public support and understanding of chemistry. (JN)

Presents a proposal for effective teacher supervision and evaluation that puts the responsibility for supervision on someone close to the teachers, while the responsibility for evaluation remains the principal's. Includes diagrams outlining supervision and evaluation procedures. (MD)

The "Heeding New Voices" study, a year-long series of structured interviews with new faculty and graduate students aspiring to be faculty members around the country, sought both to give voice to those who are just beginning their academic careers and to provide guidance for the senior faculty, chairs, deans, and others in higher…

Describes one school's plan for mixed-ability teaching that utilizes the knowledge, skills, and experiences of all English department members by providing an integrated and coherent curriculum pattern.

Offers suggestions for use in establishing undergraduate career guidance programs in English departments. (AEA)

Presents guidelines for deciding whether an elementary or secondary school needs department heads or not. Lists the responsibilities of both department heads who are administrators, and therefore members of management, and of department heads who are supervisors, and therefore members of labor.

Presents strategic planning designed to help academic institutions. Describes five key elements: situation analysis; mission statement; objectives; creating strategies; and tactics. Discusses the implementation, benefits, and side-effects of strategic planning. (YP)