In addition to discussing many scholarly issues at its first meeting, the new Historical Society examined its own reasons for existence, including an interest in reinvigorating intellectual debate on history; reintegrating into the profession historians who have been pushed to the sidelines; and dissatisfaction with two major existing history…

Debate exists over the appropriate role of the regional accreditation agency in higher education. Some feel the agencies do colleges and universities a favor by holding them to specific standards, and others feel the agencies were not intended for a consumer protection function. Accreditation criteria, quantifiable and subjective, are also…

Some academic administrators have long felt that colleges are too much influenced by specialized accrediting agencies. Under pressure to control costs and improve general education, some are attempting to limit the agencies' authority. Proponents say accreditation is needed and conflict is inherent in the system. (MSE)

The American Bar Association has agreed to change its accrediting practices to end an antitrust suit brought by a law school denied accreditation. The consent decree is being studied carefully by other accrediting agencies to determine its broader applicability. Antitrust scrutiny in higher education is increasing. (MSE)

Fearing increased federal regulation, college accreditors are re-examining the ways they assess colleges. Agreed-upon principles include establishing minimum standards for institutions seeking accreditation in all regions of the country, setting higher standards for teaching and learning, and issuing public reports of their findings about…

Controversies concerning the role of college accrediting agencies are identified, including such issues as student enrollment diversity, student loan defaults, and accountability. Recent actions of the Education Department, Congress, and specialized accrediting agencies are noted, as is controversy concerning linking accreditation by a regional…

The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching will move from the East Coast to the West and have a new president, Lee S. Shulman, whose professional focus has been teaching and teacher education. Some observers feel the foundation has not been active enough in public policy formation recently. However, the new focus will be more on…