The theory of Wilhelm von Humboldt concerning the role of the university is discussed, focusing on four imperatives regulating its activities--unity of research and teaching; the empirical sciences; science and socialization; and science and universal enlightenment. The current status of the university is assessed in relation to these ideals. (MSE)

A model of regional competition among universities in the United Kingdom is proposed, from which a number of indexes of relative competitiveness are derived. The model is applied to data from groups of neighboring universities and then extended to other aspects of higher education and the economy in general. (Author/MSE)

Three models (structural, social, and personal) giving insight into factors that promote or inhibit change in higher education institutions are described, and themes in which the models support and complement each other are discussed. The models are then applied to the rapid expansion of continuing education in a traditional university.…

A study of resource allocation in the Nigerian university system is reported, and results are used to construct a model for budgeting and fund allocation for other African countries. The model is then applied to actual allocations for three universities to determine the extent to which current allocations fit the design of the model. (MSE)

Differences in educational practice and culture of a British distance university and Australian traditional university are the basis for analysis of curriculum development methods. It is proposed that, although generally individual faculty design new courses, there are good reasons (efficiency, cohesiveness, professional development, academic…

Guest editors comment on articles chosen for a previous journal issue focusing on the role of higher education and national economic and social development. It is noted that in developing countries, higher education addresses nation-building, whereas in developed countries emphasis is on social and economic change in the postindustrial society.…

Interviews with senior academic administrators in Australian research universities concerning the relationship of teaching and research components of academic work revealed a strong belief in a symbiotic relationship with important but subtle interconnections. A three-level (tangible, intangible, and global) nexus between the two components is…

An Australian survey of senior university administrators investigated their perceptions of research and scholarship. Interviews indicate "research" covers a wide and varied range of activities across disciplines but has three major attributes: new knowledge, inquiry, and publication of results. "Scholarship" was seen as part of…

In the experience of the University of Toronto and University of British Columbia, university management approaches emphasizing selective cutbacks generate considerable political conflict. The business perspective recommends decisiveness but offers little implementation help. Management of conflict, collegiality, and the conditions leading to…

Discussion of political activism in Africa considers whether educational institutions will become arenas of social struggle as other avenues of dissent close. Social and economic context, the cycle of student action and predictable government reaction, rising violence in student demonstrations, and emerging solidarity between students and social…

A study of 58 Victoria University (Australia) students investigated factors in their learning experience that encouraged or discouraged academic involvement. Results suggest students experience involvement in qualitatively and quantitatively different ways that appear to be related to different approaches to learning and that interaction of…

The origins, ethos, academic organization, and funding basis of the first private universities in Germany (University of Witten/Herdecke) and Great Britain (University of Buckingham) are described and compared, and their roles within their respective higher education systems are discussed. The general value of nonstate universities is examined.…

An overview of recent history of Nigerian higher education chronicles periods of phenomenal expansion, economic downturn and retrenchment, monitoring of efficiency and academic standards, continued uncontrolled expansion in the absence of basic facilities, recently improved fiscal management, revival of student aid, and proposals for the opening…

In both Senegal and Uganda, higher education reform will occur only if the universities have more administrative and fiscal autonomy. A shift from government participation in governance, enrollment, and use of resources in favor of more indirect control is recommended. However, the specific policy approaches recommended for the two countries…

Industry's experience with performance appraisal and performance management are examined, and a University of New South Wales (Australia) performance management program for general staff is discussed. The issues raised appear to be common to universities, and it is concluded that the approach is unlikely to work effectively in the university…