Higher education institutions educate those who are the most talented and best able to secure the future for the next generation. This study examines an efficient strategy process in higher education and emphasises the importance of sufficient dialogue during the process. The study describes the strategy process of the Turku University of Applied…

The University of Toledo has applied a systems approach to the design of an academic program evaluation model. The systems approach seems to be the most appropriate because it emphasizes the whole system instead of component systems. Selected evaluation models are reviewed, Toledo's research paradigm is described, and the function of a university…

Issues in the evaluation of the college planning process are examined, and 13 questions to be addressed in assessing both strategic and operational planning functions are presented, including criteria for evaluating (1) the decisional aspect of planning, (2) planning data, and (3) the process. Evaluation methods are also discussed. (MSE)

Describes a project of the Coalition for Networked Information, founded in 1990 to advance scholarship interest in the networked-computer environment. The project coordinated work of seven higher education institutions in conducting assessments of their campus networks. Topics discussed include the networking climate on campuses, why assessment is…

The portfolio approach to evaluation can be a useful method of screening and comparing educational programs in terms of their productivity and potential. In the field of investments, portfolio analysis consists of identifying the relative strengths of assets in terms of the dimensions of return and potential for growth. College programs can be…

The contemporary context and some recent trends affecting college program reviews or evaluations, current options in purposes and practices, and impacts on programs and institutions are discussed. It is recommended that the process be viewed as a contribution to the general knowledge base for campus constituencies rather than as "right answers"…

This compilation of reports from Southeast Community College in Kentucky includes the 1998-99 Annual Report, the 1997-98 Enrollment Report, the 1999-2000 Annual Plan, and Action Strategies for 1999-2000. Sections include: (1) Message from the president (cover letter, mission statement, and vision statement); (2) Annual report 1998-1999 (brief…

Problems relating to program discontinuance and the role of institutional research are discussed, drawing on a study supported by the Exxon Foundation of 10 predominantly large public universities that have either reviewed and closed programs or have gone through recent financial difficulties. Careful analysis is necessary to know that savings are…

The imperatives of institutional planning in an environment of scarce resources have brought program evaluation activities under more systematic processes serving varied needs. Evaluation processes at Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Houston are examined. (Author/MSE)

The evaluation of "institutional effectiveness" is required by many accrediting agencies and mandated by some state legislatures. It was hypothesized that the degree to which institutions have mobilized to meet these new accountability demands is related to the existence of a formal institutional research office. To test this hypothesis,…

A discussion of program review at the multicampus University of Maryland focuses on the role of the central system administration in providing a framework that encourages integration of program review into institutional planning and budgeting activities. Systemwide program review procedures are outlined, and the complicating factor of…

The process of developing program evaluation models for Florida International University's college of education is described. One lesson learned was that a combination of macro- and microlevel planning is necessary for purposeful evaluation. A grid to aid decision making is also presented. (Author/MSE)

Assessment in higher education is addressed in these proceedings of the 1987 conference of the North East Association for Institutional Research. Papers and authors include: "Assessing the Status of Assessment" (Peter T. Ewell); "Has the Middle Class Been Pressured the Most? Multivariate Analysis of Parental Contributions to Higher…

This journal, designed as a forum for the exchange of ideas among research and planning professionals, offers articles of research studies and practices. After Timothy Lightfield highlights upcoming professional association events, Janice S. Ancarrow's article, "The National Vocational Education Data Reporting and Accounting System (VEDS): Its…

Discusses issues and practices in information management (IM) in a number of fields, with emphasis on the role of IM for institutional research and assessment, particularly in colleges and universities. Topics discussed include the scope of IM, the multiple uses of information, policy needs, administration of IM processes, taking an…