This publication examines the purposes and functions of policy as a conceptual focus for the problems and issues of higher education. Emphasis is placed on the conceptual difficulties of policy, distinctive features of policy, and policy functions and issues. The major contention suggests that the purpose of policy is to provide a general…

The idea that knowledge is a major determinant of policy in industry and government is discussed with reference to Harold Wilensky's book, "Organizational Intelligence: Knowledge and Policy in Government and Industry." Implications for academe's institutional research activities are considered. (LBH)

Different planning methods are discussed, and quality and efficiency as planning objectives are addressed in this paper. The purposes of corporate, governmental, and collegiate planning are distinguised and sequential versus transactional models are explained. It is suggested that collegial planning may be a hybrid of sequential and transactional…

Author reasons that the results promised by planned change and policy science cannot replace purpose, that there are not enough talented people to provide alternative learning, and that accountability may drown in its own paperwork. Consensus may exist in the agreement that no organizing principle can be found. (Editor/PG)

The educational value of standardized tests and their fairness to racial and ethnic groups continue to be intensely debated issues that affect public policies. This article summarizes many of the prominent points of view and suggests a series of six policy alternatives as possible solutions to the controversies. (Editor/LBH)

Institutional research is a practicing art, whose merits lie in its relevance to and influence on decision and policy making. A more positive attitude toward theory-related research would enhance its future development. (Author/MLW)

Ten imperatives for planning in American higher education address educational mission, leadership development, organizational and technological problems, governance, policy planning, diversity, knowledge utilization, definition of options, and communication in plain English (instead of educationese). (DB)

This monograph contains a collection of six national commission reports that address the nation's need to improve undergraduate education. The reports present findings and recommendations that target policy (public and institutional), programs (college and university), and constructive changes in institutions of higher education, as well as their…

This documents consists of two monographs, first published in 1973 and 1975, which examine the purpose and functions of institutional policy in dealing with the problems and issues affecting higher education. Their focus is conceptual, and the discussion looks to the philosophical, historical, and sociocultural underpinnings of institutional…