Reflects on fundamental questions concerning accountability in higher education: "Toward what end?"; "What data and criteria are relevant?"; "Who is responsible for what and to whom?"; and "Through what means?"; Discusses the characteristics of an effective accountability system. (EV)

A recent project in higher education in which evidence of falsification was found is described along with two other projects that demonstrate the possibility for falsification. An advantage of standardized questionnaires and machine techniques for scoring and reporting is the low cost, but the need to detect and prevent falsification raises…

It is argued that, although assessment of colleges and universities can promote discussion and encourage improvement of college instruction, accountability serves only to further chill the regulatory climate without specifying needs or solutions. As currently conceived, accountability cannot receive widespread faculty support because it usurps…