While nonclassroom learning activities provide tremendous educational opportunities, higher education managers must assess the compatibility of the learning program with the basic attitudes, characteristics, beliefs, and culture of the institution for successful implementation. (MSE)

Self-paced instruction as a teaching method can offer flexibility to students and academic institutions, but it must be accompanied by planning and development efforts to identify viable courses and instructors, ensure adequate support for the faculty, and ensure that support systems are responsive to student needs. (MSE)

Threats in the external environment, the arrival of a planning-oriented new president, and new regional reaccreditation criteria prompted West Texas State University to undertake a successful strategic planning venture. Leadership must focus strategic planning in a manner that recognizes the decentralized and collegial elements present in higher…

In the newly competitive realm of higher education, strategic planning offers a systematic method for defining colleges and universities in order to enhance their strengths and market positions and to shape their futures. The focal elements of strategic planning and benefits and limits of strategic planning are discussed. (MLW)