Six key standards set by institutions of higher education are identified: the use of time for academic learning, content in the disciplines, level of academic performance expected of students, the preparation of teachers, cooperation with schools, industry, government to improve education, and the ethical behavior of institutions. (MLW)

Higher education is threatened by confusion and uncertainty about how to fulfill its role. At issue is the survival of two interdependent sectors in the structure of higher education--public and private. Trustees are stewards of the public interest in higher education. (MLW).

Trustees should ask certain questions that will bring them closer to the attitude and approach of accreditation. These might include: What does this institution expect its graduates to know? How do we evaluate success? Processes of accreditation, which focus on education quality and institutional integrity can be applied. (Author/LBH)

How Florida responded to a call for improved educational quality by revamping admission standards is described. A number of states have investigated subject matter requirements, which allow students to know what is expected of them and gives a common base for disclosure. (MLW)

Today's specialized accrediting threatens to strangle general and liberal education, to dissipate public confidence in voluntary accreditation, and to increase the danger of governmental intrusion. The need for adoption of voluntary national guidelines on admissions and recruitment practices is advocated. (Author/MLW)

Society's pressures on higher education are seen as turning students into "attendees" and colleges into holding vats for the young. Some suggestions include elevating standards in the schools, using educational brokering, sharpening accrediting surveillance, providing incentives, and forming faculty-admissions officer "Committees on Academic…

Seven weaknesses of accreditation are described: long intervals between site visits, automatic accreditation of branches, weak penalties, inadequate public disclosure, inadequate enforcement, leadership shortcomings, and problems with program evaluation. (Author/MLW)

The Republic of China has based its economic and cultural progress on a strong national education program stressing quality. AGB visitors to Taiwanese universities noted Spartan surroundings, well-equipped libraries and labs, and students intent on learning. (Author/MLW)

Issues that must be addressed if predominantly Anglo-American universities are to improve minority participation and achievement rates without sacrificing quality include help minority students graduate, plan strategically, encourage perceptions of comfort, expect support from faculty, present reflective curriculums, and promote diversity. (MLW)