Some of the ways in which small educational institutions have adjusted their priorities to a changing environment are examined. Two models of strategic management--the adaptive strategy model and the interpretive strategy model--are discussed. Current perceptions of admissions directors and academic deans in North Carolina were investigated. (MLW)

A carefully orchestrated capital budget, an essential element of corporate management, is particularly important for a small college with limited resources. A simple management system can be adopted to achieve institutional goals. (MSE)

Describes a new curriculum for speech communication students who do not wish to teach--public communication--that combines studies in the departments of speech, English, journalism, and radio-television. (PD)

The development of information systems using an engineering approach that uses both traditional programing techniques and fourth generation software tools is described. Fourth generation applications tools are used to quickly develop a prototype system that is revised as the user clarifies requirements. (MLW)

This book analyzes the latest data and economic models to explore whether an unpredictable economy, changes in student preference, tuition that outpaced inflation, and new forms of competition will plunge small colleges into chronic financial distress. It then suggests ways small colleges can position themselves to avoid economic disaster by…

A symposium on the challenges and opportunities facing small institutions as they move into the 21st century was held to allow participants the opportunity to describe their own initiatives and to hear the views of representatives of larger institutions with technology mediated programs. The paper provides an overview of the strategic issues…

This paper examines the presumption that larger teacher education programs are superior to smaller ones, suggesting that many of the persistent problems of preservice teacher education are rooted in the large, bureaucratic organization so prevalent in current programming. The paper suggests that small program size makes possible the development…

Search committee members can help improve the likelihood that senior vacancies will be filled on time, within budget, and without unpleasant surprises. Methods include creating a job description, position criteria, and an institution profile; setting a timetable; using consultants; clarifying needs for candidate information; maintaining…

Without significant changes in educational programs, teaching-learning strategies and living-learning environments the so-called "invisible colleges" may in fact disappear because they have been unable to meet the needs of their constituencies. These small, private colleges with limited resources must become interdependent with their environments.…

Describes how, even with a $600 million endowment, a small, rich college like Oberlin is feeling the economic pinch. (EV)

Describes the experience of two small colleges, Chatham and Wesley, that survived the financial distress common to small school today. Discusses their lessons: reinforce strengths, rebuild the strongest financial source, diversify income, manage debt, and run a disciplined budget and financial management system. (EV)

The article describes how one liberal arts college, Mount Saint Mary's College (Maryland), developed a core curriculum over a four-year period. The curriculum's roots in a faculty survey and issues of consensus and debate (especially the curriculum's principle of integration) are discussed. Principles such as detailed organization with flexibility…

Discusses basic issues in designing and administering study abroad programs, including program length, location, structure, and supervision; financial considerations; student selection; orientation; and interinstitutional cooperation. Looks at current trends in integration with the host culture and curricular support. (DMM)

It is argued, based on the experiences of 16 small, diverse independent colleges, that small institutions can reverse decline. The analysis looks at signs of problems, patterns of institutional blindness to the problems that lead to additional decline, and behavior characteristics of the institutions that survive. (MSE)