This paper analyzes the current proposals by the government of Alberta, Canada, to implement an accountability framework for the province's postsecondary institutions using performance indicators. The paper develops a conceptual framework for performance indicators based on a discrepancy model of evaluation using three metaphors: mechanical,…

This case study examined the unsuccessful efforts of the University of Maine's (UM) president, Frederick Hutchinson, to "downsize" that institution begun in 1993. It focuses on reasons for the failure of Hutchinson to persuade the faculty to accept his vision. The study used a combination of Michael Hammer and James Champy's list of…

In 1979 the College of Business at the University of Montevallo (Alabama), a small undergraduate institution emphasizing liberal studies and professional programs supported by a broad base of arts and sciences, decided to work toward achieving accreditation by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business. Curriculum review indicated…

The radical restructuring of Alaska's public higher education system brought on by the state's 1986 economic collapse is discussed. The plan called for a merger of 11 community colleges with three universities into three multi-campus institutions. It realigned statewide programs in vocational technical education, fisheries and ocean sciences,…

Mississippi State University's revamped undergraduate foreign language program was designed to attract new students interested in job preparedness. The B.S. program is tightly structured to provide students with both general education and expertise in four areas of study essential for a career in world trade: foreign language fluency, proficiency…

The relationship between the external environment and state appropriations to public higher education is analyzed, focusing on the following: (1) the extent to which environmental factors explain yearly appropriations outcomes for public four-year colleges and universities; (2) which environmental factors are most important and which are least…

The trend toward greater state regulation of public higher education is discussed, along with alternative structures or models for state financing of public institutions. The situation in Washington State is briefly described as an illustration. It is proposed that interests of the state, college, and student can be enhanced by allowing colleges…

American universities have successfully contributed to the economic, social and technological development of the United States, educating students of diverse backgrounds and combining the teaching of graduates and undergraduates. American universities need to find ways to realistically respond to increased public expectations and continue to…

This longitudinal multi-method study assessed changes in institutional autonomy at 30 community colleges in one state. Six years after legislated changes intended to increase autonomy and create a uniform fiscal operation system had been implemented, the study found that changes in autonomy in selected fiscal, personnel, and operational matters…

A survey of chairpersons of the Departments of Economics at 47 accredited U.S. colleges and universities collected data concerning required and recommended courses, departments in which students take the courses, satisfaction with the courses, and problems in those courses where respondents indicated dissatisfaction. Results indicated that: (1)…

Position change of administrators at a large, public research university was studied during 1983-1985. Attention was directed to: the organizational configuration of administrative positions and position vacancies; the effect of personnel policies and practices regarding internal and external appointments, position creation, and sponsorship on the…

In the past several years, a number of states have enacted laws requiring all classroom instructors employed by the state to be proficient in English. Other states will have similar laws on the books within the year, and another handful are still considering the issue. These laws have affected primarily the international teaching assistants…

This paper explores the ways in which community colleges in the United States are financed. It offers a historical overview of community college financing in the U.S., arguing that from their inception, they have operated on the premise of providing wide access to higher education through public funding at little or no cost to students. The paper…

In order to better understand the factors that contribute to student attrition in community colleges, a study was undertaken to track a cohort of 1990 first-time students at a Florida public community college for 2 years. Once the cohort students were identified, a file was built containing both demographic and academic attributes, including age,…

This report presents the results of a delphi study used to determine the criteria for defining excellence in higher education. An open questionnaire was administered to the commissions on education of the Puerto Rico Legislature, the administrators and governing boards of the major public and private postsecondary institutions in Puerto Rico, and…