The issue of adequate funding permeates all legislation reported by state directors as significantly affecting community colleges in 1976, as state legislatures are increasingly reluctant to meet funding needs. Related issues include reorganization of governance structures, statewide coordination, institutional growth, enrollment limitations,…

Argues that older, nontraditional students, rather than ill-prepared recent high school graduates, are currently the primary beneficiaries of community college open admissions. Feels this shift refutes many of the criticisms currently launched against open admissions. Finds open enrollment policies necessary to the concept of lifelong learning.…

The community college's commitment to universal educational opportunity is being extended to all institutions of higher education. Such community college practices as individualized instruction, guidance counseling and community-based efforts need to be expanded and will serve as examples as senior institutions attempt to meet the challenge of…

Examines the vital role of the community college in increasing access to higher education, especially among minorities and disadvantaged groups. Discusses fiscal constraints which jeopardize the continuation of this role and suggests increased cooperation with public schools and area businesses as a means of improving educational productivity. (JP)

Describes the downsizing and restructuring occurring in many community colleges due to funding decreases and enrollment increases. Discusses the feasibility of keeping an open-door policy, and explores other options to downsizing. Lists steps to help colleges review their missions, arguing that they must move to find their market niches. (AJL)

Focuses on programs that address the needs of at-risk high school students and graduates through remedial and supplemental courses at community and technical colleges, citing models in Connecticut, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. Discusses difficulties in funding. In the absence of reform, community colleges will continue in this role. (DM)

A Coordinator of Performing Arts at Western Piedmont Community College in North Carolina describes the challenges and rewards posed by an open-door educational philosophy in which community service is as important as artistic excellence. The college's mission is to serve the special needs of the community, which primarily consists of state…

The founders of General College, at the University of Minnesota, established the school in 1932 out of a belief in democratic access to higher education, the need to simplify the academic bureaucracy, and the desire for a liberalized curriculum. During its first 13 years, the college assumed and maintained three basic priorities: open admissions,…

The first Borough of Manhattan Community College open-admissions entry class of Fall 1970 was compared with previous classes. The following characteristics were studied: personal, academic, socioeconomic, and family. The massive influx of new students necessitated adaptive educational and administrative behavior. Evaluative research, which is…

The purpose of this discussion is to state the case for an important alternative educational model and examines the potential for developing necessary revitalization of the educational system. (Author/RK)

Uses the imagery of pioneer life to underscore the uncertainty of today's community college mission. Discusses the community college characteristics that represent a significant departure from traditional higher education: equal opportunity, open admissions, community involvement, comprehensive curriculum, and teaching orientation. Proposes…

Argues that the practices of higher education (e.g., classes, semesters, and grades) are increasingly incompatible with the purpose of maximizing student learning and growth. Discusses the affective and cognitive advantages of a mastery approach to granting credit. (AYC)

Based on a 3-year case study of an open-access community college, this monograph examines the background, causes, and possible resolutions for the decline of literacy in open-access colleges. Chapter 1 presents a working definition of literacy, considers the nature of literacy in a community college setting, and raises issues concerning the impact…

While this study is geographically specific, it features an evaluation form which could be used elsewhere. The purpose of the investigation was twofold: (1) to determine if students who were in attendance at Bronx Community College during both the 1975-76 and the 1976-77 academic years perceive any significant changes, from the first to the second…