Education continues to be blamed for many of society's ills and the liberal arts and the occupational training advocates continue to argue about which is more important. What is needed is a new perspective that focuses on education as the acquisition of basic and general skills rather than the acquisition of either knowledge per se or narrow…

The values of higher education -- the beliefs that govern the conduct and define the goals of American higher education -- are examined in relation to society as a whole. It is suggested that there is evidence of good intentions, good will, and remarkable social advances, but also a lack of sense of direction. Each of these contradictory images is…

The writings of educational theorists, including W. E. B. DuBois and contemporary critics, are reviewed in this assessment of Black colleges in the U.S. The Black college experience, shown to have continued to expose students to a double culture, helped them develop a double consciousness, and taught them to seek a double victory. (LBH)

The federal role in education is likely to shift in the years ahead, says the Commission of Education, and so may the social functions of many institutions of higher learning. Discussed are federal goals, access to education, core curricula, federal aid and intervention, and governmental decision-making. (LBH)

Since the early 1900s, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has assumed a role as useful citizen of the state with a variety of outreach programs designed to solve agricultural, economic, social, and medical problems. In addition to practical outcomes, the approach has enriched lives and encouraged individual effort. (MSE)

Asserts that as developmental education is being attacked by cost-minded legislators, developmental educators must do a better job of advertising its benefits. Outlines the benefits of developmental education for both underprepared and prepared individuals, society, faculty, and administrators. Claims that developmental education enhances student…

This paper analyzes the potential implications of ceasing or lowering the funding for developmental studies programs in California community colleges. After an initial discussion of the financial constraints impinging upon community colleges, the possible effects of fiscal reductions on college missions, and the role of developmental education in…

The state of competency-based education (CBE) and liberal arts is examined in this reflective discussion. Questions addressed include: What does liberal education seek to accomplish? What are the liberal competencies? What has liberal education to do with the human condition, as expressed in work or a job? Issues and difficulties are frankly set…

The running of the Los Angeles Community College District incorporates two distinct kinds of functions: those of an educational nature and those that are corporate in scope. While the educational functions have been performed well, the future will demand even greater responsiveness to student needs. Issues to be faced in the future to insure that…

This mission statement expresses purposes of the State University of New York at Albany, and is the opening essay in a planning process that is the responsibility of the Office of Academic Planning. Focus is on the pertinent elements of mission and on criteria for institutional development. The statement contains the following: historical…

The growth of community colleges is described and their objectives analyzed. Although community colleges can contribute to society by educating a variety of minority groups, they should not overlook their more important responsibility of educating their majorities of average students. (LBH)

The author's hope for the future of private higher education does not rest on its claim to being unique or on the importance of a plurality in education, but on its dedication to furthering intellectual excellence, especially in terms of the study of literature. (LBH)

Some of the criticisms of American higher education are identified and answered. Areas covered include increasing costs, economic and noneconomic impacts on future life, preparation for the future, and the charge of too much overeducation. This paper is adapted from a convocation speech by the president of Dartmouth College. (LBH)

Puts forward the thesis of convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools, which suggests that career and community colleges are becoming increasingly alike in providing a specialized form of education and training beyond secondary school. Compares aspects of the two institutions, and provides groundwork for informed discussion on the…

Argues that the apparent convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools is in large part caused by changes in federal student aid policy. Suggests that the apparent convergence masks real and profound differences between these institutions in the areas of mission, governance, size, articulation with other sectors, costs, and market…