From the results of a questionnaire sent to administration, faculty, students, and alumni at 12 predominantly Black institutions in the Middle States Association (MSA) region, it is concluded that the accrediting agency has served as a catalyst for change and as a positive force in institutional improvement. (RDN)

Whether by state mandate, institutional initiative, or the requirements of accrediting bodies, community colleges and other institutions of higher education are giving increased attention to assessment and evaluation. In the region accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) of Colleges and Schools, for example, several community colleges…

Discusses the benefits and limitations of accrediting association membership and the impact of the 1992 Reauthorization of Higher Education Amendments on community colleges. Describes the colleges' roles in the accreditation movement and their responsibilities in maintaining quality, learning resources, faculty balance, and academic freedom in the…

Strategies to enable blacks to achieve access, choice, and parity in higher education under the aegis of accreditation are suggested. It is noted that educational requirements or standards are directly or indirectly set by accrediting agencies. The following recommendations for accrediting agencies are offered: accrediting agencies should involve…

Perspectives concerning the lack of participation of many minority persons in colleges and universities in the accreditation process are offered, along with recommendations for accrediting agencies, colleges, and minorities. It is noted that the executive staffs of accrediting bodies have no blacks. Further, no staff of the national agencies has…

Describes the Middle States Commission's development of a framework for outcomes assessment. Defines outcomes assessment as a process by which evidence for congruence between institutional mission/goals and outcomes is assembled and analyzed to improve teaching and learning. Discusses the future of outcomes assessment in the region. (DMM)

Discusses the role of assessment in community colleges and reviews assessment from the perspective of accrediting bodies. Examines challenges faced by community colleges including planning strategically, implementing effective transfer and articulation, achieving affirmative learning environments, and fulfilling college missions and objectives…