This study explored how supervisors in student affairs narrate their experiences of supervising new professionals. Utilizing narrative inquiry methodology, data were obtained through in-depth interviews of 13 supervisors and analyzed using thematic and narrative analysis methods. Implications for graduate preparation programs, professional…

In this era of increased accountability, it is important to consider how student affairs researches and assesses the outcomes of efforts to increase moral competence. This article examines both qualitative and quantitative inquiry methods for measuring moral development. The authors review the instrumentation and methods typically used to measure…

Dana is a graduate assistant in the second year of a master's program in student personnel. In a class discussion of assistantship issues, Dana reveals that he has decided not to enforce the university's policy of "writing up" all underage students who are in a residence hall room where alcohol is present. He says that in his opinion the punitive…

Many professions require members to be involved in continuing education in order to maintain skill levels, to remain current on issues, and often to remain licensed or certified in that field. The same level of continuous professional development does not always occur in student affairs, and there exists no system for documenting such activities…

Surveys past presidents of ACPA and NASPA (N=25) regarding their advice for individuals beginning their first entry-level position and for seasoned professionals planning to move into Chief Student Affairs Officers (CSAO) positions. Several of the themes that emerged included: pursue opportunities for professional development, develop strong…

States that student affairs administrators must choose wisely between increasing reliance on legal minimalism and a more reflective judgment model that can evolve toward a model of unified practice balancing policy and law with developmentally appropriate practices. Offers recommendations concerning the future of student affairs. (Author/MKA)

Studies the authorship patterns since the 1970s of the "Journal of College Student Development," and the "NASPA Journal." Results reveal a trend toward an increased incidence of collaborative authorship as well as a relative decrease in authorship by professional administrators and an increase in authorship by graduate…

Student affairs practitioners were asked to assess the importance of "must statements" from the General Standards developed by the Council for the Advancement of Standards in relation to their current position and place of employment. Results indicate respondents felt comfortable with their skills and knowledge to meet the standards that…

Discusses a workshop designed to help middle and high school counselors and teachers learn about the complexities of the college admission process. Information about variables related to success in college provided a discussion about how middle and high schools can change their counseling programs to address more psychosocial concerns. (MKA)

Researchers surveyed 151 chief student-affairs officers to determine their perceptions of the most important skills and competencies that should be possessed by new doctoral graduates aspiring to midmanagement student-affairs positions. Four skill areas were identified as most important, and two skills were identified as least essential.…

Through the Decision Perspective Survey, Southern Association for College Student Affairs members were asked to consider the extent to which they considered educational/development versus legal issues when making decisions in their work. Results indicate a change in emphasis in decision making with significant new consideration given to legal…