This paper proposes the importance of qualitative research synthesis to the field of higher education. It examines seven key texts that undertake synthesis in this field and compares essential features and elements across studies. The authors indicate strengths of the approaches and highlight ways forward for using qualitative research synthesis…

This article analyzes 255 articles published in seven peer-reviewed journals over a 10-year period and presents examples of how higher education researchers undertake the study of campus racial climates; racial differences in access, outcomes, and attainment; and the experiences of students, faculty, and administrators of color on predominantly…

Reviews the history of higher education as both a professional field and a disciplinary field in light of the current relationship between researchers and practitioners. Suggests that it is necessary to balance the competing interests of theory and research with the practical requirements of practice and policy. Suggests a focus on integration for…

Research trends in the field of educational administration over the last decade are reviewed, and their relevance to the teaching and practice of college and university administration is discussed. It is concluded that there is value in the research, but better communication between the worlds of research and practice is needed. (MSE)

Dichotomizes academic research and educational policymaking as distinct and often conflicting cultures. Examines legislative support of higher education as an illustration of the research-policy disconnection. Summarizes recent criticisms of higher education research. Discusses differing "mind frames" of researchers and policymakers,…

The literature on the development of college students is discussed, and recommendations are offered for developing a course on student development theory and research. The following observations about the literature are considered: (1) the literature on the college student is actually two separate literatures, one focused on outcomes and the other…

Ways in which specific pieces of scholarship can be useful to college and university administrators, planners, and policymakers are discussed. Five journal articles and portions of books on research universities, strategy-making for complex organizations, leadership, collegiality, and institutional research are examined in relation to how they…