Discusses the nature and characteristics of information technology and its implications for education. Strategic directions for educational institutions are recommended: (1) improving academic quality; (2) supporting innovation; (3) developing the resource base; (4) developing partnerships with other organizations; (5) enhancing reputation; (6)…

The difficulties associated with the formulation and implementation of multiyear planning in institutions of higher education are discussed. The organizational factors that limit an institution's ability to change direction or deviate from traditional patterns are described. The results of attempts to develop strategies to implement change are…

Examination of the importance of management in library schools discusses two problem areas in the library school environment--the parent university and society beyond the university. The need for strategic planning which includes an assessment of the environment is emphasized. (Six references) (MES)

Presents several arguments in favor of the involvement of school librarians in the planning and implementation of school-based staff development. Five steps in program planning are also discussed: needs assessment, analysis of responses to formulate objectives, identification of resources, implementation, and evaluation. (7 references) (MES)

An educator criticizes the fuzzy goals, unrealistic assumptions, simple schemes, and self-gratifying plaudits of college administrators planning to change higher education and urges more specific and realistic strategies. (MSE)

Based on survey data collected in 1982, this article reports the enrollment preferences of students entering colleges and universities in China. Results showed a clear preference for universities whose graduates are to be allocated jobs in Beijing and for the career fields of medicine, computer science, and radio communications. (JDH)

Discusses the recent rise in interest in the teaching of thinking skills. Presents brief outlines of eight school districts' successful thinking skills programs. All these programs were developed through careful attention to time and training and with an understanding that success is based on a long-term plan of action. (MD)

The author argues that adult students should participate in decisions relevant to their education and that adult education should be learner centered. (CH)

An attorney involved in Individualized Education Program (IEP) hearings and placement decisions for children with special needs proposes specific measures to ensure that the learning disabled child's strengths as well as deficits are diagnosed, communicated at IEP hearings, and productively used in subsequent educational planning. (JW)

An overview is given of the American system of higher education, the government's role in it, its financing, demographics, and other issues significant to foreign college administrators. (MSE)

The author introduces a technique for enhancing student involvement in planning. She describes the nominal group technique, which is a structured process that enables adults to participate actively in planning their learning activities. (Editor/CT)

Argues that a school or district's ability to create effective learning conditions depends in large part on the extent to which policies exist to ensure that certain crucial principles are followed. Lists and discusses six policies to be considered by educators attempting to improve the quality of their programs. (FL)

Outlines the basic uses of computer systems and software programs by school administrators. Describes the different hardware and software needed to accomplish complex school administration. (MD)

The purpose of this article is to discuss hardware issues and help educators assess their hardware needs in order to determine the best computer hardware for their school program. Good and bad features, flexibility, reliability, cost effectiveness, and optimum classroom configuration are given particular attention. (LMO)

Recommends viewing the computer as a tool and addresses several questions educators need to ask about the use of computers in the classroom, including how they should be used, the number of machines needed, and how much work should actually be done at the computers. (FL)