The mineral springs resort of Zzyzx in California is the site of a unique academic research center in high desert studies. It is being developed into a Desert Studies Center for seven southern campuses of the California State University and College System, and will provide field work opportunities for geology, geography, and anthropology students.…

The Institute for the Advancement of Philosophy for Children, a nonprofit organization at Montclair State College in New Jersey, is dedicated to improving children's thinking skills and to training future elementary school teachers in the art of philosophical inquiry. (JMD)

The folklore of higher education is reviewed in these selections from a book of stories on famous professors and their classroom techniques. (LBH)

"If the research in higher education ended, it would scarcely be missed." This is the time when excellent research and scholarship about higher learning and its institutions is needed, yet the study of this national resource is at a low ebb. The reasons for low appraisals of research are discussed. (MLW)

The origin, history, staffing, editorial policy and practices, and financial history of "The Chronicle of Higher Education" are outlined, with anecdotes about the events and individuals in the publication's history, management's outlook, and plans for service expansion. (MSE)

Efforts and concerns addressed in the very recent, rapid revitalization of China's higher education are discussed, including virtual cessation of education during the Cultural Revolution, students in the postCultural Revolution, instructional television, part-time and factory education for workers, youth unemployment, and academic quality. (MSE)