In 1973 the Student Center for Educational Research was created at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst to find ways of using student talent, with the help of interested faculty, in teaching and research. Center studies have dealt with student governance, athletic and housing problems, and activities have included an internship program,…

A recently released National Institute of Education publication about the state of U.S. undergraduate education that gives 27 suggestions for their improvement is summarized and discussed. A number of criticisms are offered, including lack of documentation. (MSE)

Interviews with the five 1992 winners of the national Student Humanitarian Service Awards focus on motivation for public service, relationship with the community, compulsory student service requirements, student recruitment, faculty recruitment, and personal development. (DB)

The research library is the focus of a scholarly communication system in crisis. Costs, volume of information, and technological advancement have brought changes that significantly challenge the current library structure. However, technology is not the most important variable; the culture and lifestyle of faculty and students must adapt also. (MSE)

Twelve recommendations for streamlining the transition to new educational technologies in higher education address asking fundamental questions, building a vision, adjusting to permanent change, exercising judgment and trust, rejecting dichotomies, understanding intellectual property and fair use, developing guidelines and policies, preparing for…

Sixteen founding ideas of St. John's College (Maryland) are recalled and discussed briefly as a reminder of the basic principles underlying this living academic community. The ideas concern student and teacher roles, teacher compensation, educational methods and outcomes, selectivity, and institutional administration. (MSE)