Britain's higher education system illustrates how increased governmental influence can change social systems and produce unintended consequences. A model of change used to analyze this situation also suggests a form of accountability that can reduce unintended consequences, based on sharing of both power and responsibility by government and…

The ability of the university culture to adapt to changing environmental conditions that challenge the institution's primary functions and values (academic freedom, autonomy) is discussed, and management approaches that mirror the specific culture of a university are described. Methods for assessing culture are described, a typology for…

The historical path that led to the American system of institutional diversity in higher education is examined, and its positive (e.g., institutional autonomy, flexibility) and negative (e.g., possible over-responsiveness to short-term pressures) consequences are discussed. Issues in the privatization of higher education systems in other countries…

The feasibility of using contracts rather than grants to fund higher education institutions in Australia is examined. The theoretical basis, nature of the contractual relationship, and likely effects of such a policy are discussed. Conditions necessary for success in achieving government objectives and maintaining university autonomy are…

Attempts, most unsuccessful, to reform India's university examination system are chronicled, including curriculum reform, increased frequency of public examinations, introduction of internal assessment, development of item banks, changeover to a grading system, shift to semesters, improved administration, and creation of autonomous colleges. The…