Presents an exploration of research that benefits a community college English department as it reconsiders the theoretical foundations of its curriculum. Notes how the department crafted a curriculum that was not only inclusive but responsive to the students taught. Concludes that writing is only lasting when it is intertwined with the lives and…

Suggests how English departments and teachers can humanize the use of computer technology in the teaching of literacy. Asserts that computer support of English programs will only succeed with a humanistic vision of computer technology. (MM)

Discusses how English teachers can work with other departments to promote interdisciplinary approaches to teaching. Describes sharing writing labs; producing television news reports; engaging in a school-wide theme week; an "academic" Olympic Games; vocabulary exercises in the social studies classes; mock trials; and a team-taught social…

Looks at various issues set before English departments by recent federal legislation uncapping the mandatory retirement age. Examines the "worst case" scenario of unlimited tenure. Argues that while it is too early to predict the effects of this legislation, preliminary indications show that incentives for early retirement are working.…

Describes the problems inherent in finding competent leadership for today's college English departments. Outlines the basic kinds of traits and characteristics that would mark both ideal leaders and followers in the academy. Discusses the different kinds of leaders. (HB)

Considers the role of the English department head in a time of fiscal constraint and retrenchment. Describes the special responsibilities necessitated by lean financial circumstances. Discusses department/administration relations and the public relations aspect of chairing a department. (HB)

Addresses three concerns regarding beginning secondary English teachers: the shock of entering the real world of public schools; specific ways that postsecondary English departments can ease that transition; and weaknesses the new teachers often bring with them. (RS)

Offers an overview of the information prepared by the MLA (Modern Language Association) Committee on Academic Freedom and Professional Rights and Responsibilities. Discusses recruitment and application, advising and course work, standards for teaching and other professional experience, and grievances. (CR)

Suggests that e-mail and the Web can make the hunt for a job in the English profession and the hiring process easier, faster, less expensive, and more effective for everyone involved. Addresses problems using e-mail for the job search. Concludes that the Web functions best as a supplementary source of information for candidates and institutions.…

Tells what has happened the last two years at the University of Louisville's English department. Presents a brief explanation of why the University of Louisville's English department decided to redefine their mission--moving all professorial faculty into first-year composition. Offers some general comments about what the author has learned as a…

Addresses teachers' feelings of dismay, perhaps even disgust with the work of their students. Concludes that how educators talk about students reveals what they think about themselves as teachers; and how they think about themselves as teachers reveals how they think about higher education and its role in enacting democracy. (SG)

Suggests guidelines for departments and institutions regarding information technology; guidelines dealing with the hiring, reappointment, tenure, and promotion processes designed to help departments and faculty members implement effective evaluation procedures; and guidelines that recommend the minimal reference information that should be provided…

Lists guidelines to help department administrators reduce their liability and strengthen their position when faced with grievances or lawsuits. (AEA)

Relates the experiences of a white academic teaching in a black rural state college--a plunge into the world of black experience which shocked the academic. States that everything was different--students' names, their manner of dress, their reaction to the O.J. Simpson verdict. Finds that leaving the ivory tower was not easy, but the job exceeded…

Presents guidelines that specify the kinds of information that will assist modern language faculties to identify and rectify problems in their graduate programs before it is necessary to justify the size or existence of those programs. Focuses on programs leading to the PhD degree, although questions relating to master's degrees are included where…