Outlines the strategic (i.e., demographic, economic, political, social, and technological) conditions that influence resource allocations to community colleges. Argues that assessment of these conditions as well as of the outcomes and benefits of college programs are critical to improving the colleges' funding base. (DMM)

A State University of New York program is described in order to illustrate how self-assessment can serve two purposes: accreditation and sound institutional growth. In order to establish systems of self-assessment that support growth, the institution must identify and understand the obstacles it faces. (Author/MLW)

The unique characteristics of institutional management in higher education and the type of information management required to improve institutional performance are examined. The criteria that information must meet to be useful for management purposes are discussed. (MLW)

Explores the meaning of regional accreditation. Suggests accreditation tells a college admissions officer a candidate's secondary school met certain standards. Proposes it does not follow that schools without accreditation failed to meet these standards. Indicates schools and colleges are weighing the meaning and benefit of the accrediting…

The current practice of reinspecting approved law schools every seven years permits some schools to operate outside American Bar Association standards of substantial periods. Annual review is recommended, and the proposed questionnaire is appended. (Journal availability: Dennis & Co., Inc., 251 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14203, $6.00.) (MSE)

The continuing evolution of an application of the ecosystems perspective in a dean of students office holds promise for having a constructive impact not only within the office but on the division of student affairs and the university as well. (Author)

How to define quality and how to improve and clarify present standards of judgment and assessment in education are discussed. Three forms of external program review are identified: regional accreditation, professional society accreditation, and state agency evaluation. Quality is seen as representing the level of attainment of appropriate goals.…

Reviews the types of treatment facilities being utilized by youth facilities nationwide and their practices regarding self-mutilating residents. Results indicate varied frequencies of self-harming behavior. Findings suggest that departments that chose to take responsibility for stabilizing mutilating adolescents as a distinct group express greater…

The proposed use of performance indicators for evaluating higher education institutions in a number of countries is critically analyzed, particularly regarding their use for institutional and program rankings and comparisons. A more developmental system retaining positive aspects of performance indicators and encouraging program improvement is…

Looks at the validity and value of performance indicators used to allocate resources among and within British universities. Questions the relationship of performance indicators with actual quality of research and teaching. Considers the limited role of such indicators within a more appropriate system of appraisal. (Author/LS)

An application of the "Standards for Evaluations of Educational Programs, Projects, and Materials" to a private institution caring for emotionally disturbed and delinquent children--the Starr Commonwealth Schools--is discussed. Topics include the organizational context, evaluation initiation, implementation, external benefits, and…

Describes and compares the process used for accreditation of postsecondary programs of education for librarianship, and the existing programs and justification for certification of individual librarians. An argument for the advantages of institutional accreditation over individual certification is presented. (13 references) (CLB)

Describes background to the increasing pressure for instructional effectiveness in higher education and community colleges, particularly. Reviews differences between traditional discipline- and newer competency-based processes for measuring effectiveness and suggests methods for involving faculty in setting standards. Indicates that the integrity…

Describes the Effective Schools correlates monitoring and evaluation initiative implemented in 1989-94 (Phase One) in all Bureau of Indian Affairs schools as a means for generating a process of comprehensive school improvement planning. Discusses Phase One findings--areas of strength and weakness--and projections for the next step under Goals 2000…

Over the past few years, Finnish teacher education has undergone major evaluation, including evaluation by an international review team. The process has included self-evaluation, site visits, external evaluation, and increased interaction and cooperation in teacher education departments. (SM)