Research consistently describes the large percentage of community college students who struggle to meet their basic needs such as food and housing. These challenges may be exacerbated for students in rural communities. At the same time, we are also learning more about the connection between addressing students' basic needs and improving their…

This chapter describes the cocurricular activities offered through The Democracy Commitment at Allegany College of Maryland and the impact of these civic experiences on its students.

Reports on the use of new instructional technologies in seven small community colleges, addressing such issues as the underlying philosophies toward the use of instructional technology in the classroom, use of new methods of delivering instruction outside the classroom, and the use of technology in the learning resource center. (AYC)

Describes a program developed at Hagerstown Junior College to meet the professional development needs of part-time faculty at small institutions with limited resources. Examines recruitment, orientation, effective communications with administration, the provision of an instructional clinic and other support services, and program evaluation. (JP)

Describes ways in which proprietary schools are becoming more like community colleges, focusing on institutional mission, funding, and governance. Indicates that the transition to career colleges is characterized by longer programs, higher academic credentials for instructors, and pursuit of accreditation and degree-granting authority. (13…

Examines the arguments regarding convergence between community colleges and proprietary institutions put forth by the other authors in the current volume. Concludes that the convergence between institutions is more apparent than real, but that if external pressures continue or increase, it may become reality. (MAB)

Describes changes in career and community college curricula, focusing on the general education function, structure, developmental education components, technical specialization, and connections between basic education and technology. Suggests that educational partnerships and curriculum changes are agents of societal renewal. (23 citations) (MAB)

Puts forward the thesis of convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools, which suggests that career and community colleges are becoming increasingly alike in providing a specialized form of education and training beyond secondary school. Compares aspects of the two institutions, and provides groundwork for informed discussion on the…

Reviews the history of proprietary schools in the United States, arguing that convergence with community colleges is a possible but not a necessary direction. Indicates that proprietary schools developed to fill a vacuum in the training sector, but that they made inroads in the postsecondary sector using federal money. (21 citations) (MAB)

Argues that the apparent convergence of community colleges and proprietary schools is in large part caused by changes in federal student aid policy. Suggests that the apparent convergence masks real and profound differences between these institutions in the areas of mission, governance, size, articulation with other sectors, costs, and market…

Describes the effects of preparing for an accreditation visit on small colleges, focusing on best use of limited resources and appropriate responses to the review agency's report. Offers suggestions for college presidents on garnering collegiate and community good will during the accreditation process. Suggests that accreditation costs and…

This collection of essays attempts to describe the status and role of the rural community college in higher education, highlighting the special challenges faced by these institutions. The following articles are included: (1) "Opening the Shutter," by James R. Valadez and Jim Killacky; (2) "The Comprehensive Mission of the Rural Community College,"…

In the first section of this collection of essays on part-time faculty development, Carol Eliason outlines the problems inherent in current staff development practices and a systems approach to their solution. Then, David Harris voices concerns and challenges from the college president's perspective. Richard Smith explains the benefits of…