To maximize the effectiveness of their campus security systems while minimizing the institution's exposure to liability, campus administrators must understand the legal context in which their police or security personnel are operating as agents of authority. Some of these policy and behavior issues are explained. (MSE)

It is argued that, although Canadian universities face serious problems of money, morale, and purpose, their main problem may be that they are ill-equipped for constructive, institutionwide problem solving because of a preoccupation with finances, lack of useful decision-making or decision-implementing structures, and neglect of their own…

An Association of American Medical Colleges working group on student professional ethics suggests improving (1) admission criteria; (2) the medical school learning climate, including consideration of cultural diversity; and (3) communication of expectations to students. An AAMC initiative for instruction, instructional material development, and…

A recent study, "Alcohol and Drugs on American College Campuses," has prompted calls for more aggressive substance abuse prevention programs. The report cites widespread alcohol abuse and links drinking patterns to college size. In response, policymakers and higher education officials express concern about alcohol's relationship to…

Based on a review of recent literature, demographic patterns and trends of female and minority college faculty are outlined and faculty perceptions of their experiences in academe are described. Three propositions concerning incentives, rewards, and college climate are offered for institutions striving to enhance and support a diverse faculty.…

A one-semester, credit-bearing course for parents of Wichita State University freshmen improves retention because parents can help freshmen adjust to the university environment. The course provides information about the institution through monthly articles and cassette audiotapes. Parents receive identification cards and parking decals and may…

German higher education differs substantially from American undergraduate study, and American students planning to study there should be prepared for less accessible faculty, more independence, little organized student life, less academic structure, and potential problems of credit transfer. (Author/MSE)

The traditional collegiate ideal is institutionalized on many campuses through the structure and types of services offered by student affairs units. To change the collegiate ideal to represent a more inclusive environment, student affairs professionals must examine their policies and procedures and make changes that will help meet the…

Argues that the traditional definition of the collegiate ideal is inappropriate for vocational community-college students and that a more realistic portrayal of students and their programs is needed, taking into consideration the reality of fiscal constraints. "Contract education" and partnerships between colleges and industry can help students…

While the climate for students of color at public institutions in states where affirmative action has been curtailed is chilly, some neighboring private institutions are exploiting the opportunity to gain in diversity. Some fear the anti-affirmative action trend will soon begin to affect even private institutions. (MSE)

Describes and compares five major types of college learning-community curricular models: linked courses; learning clusters; freshman interest groups; federated learning communities; and coordinated studies. Characteristics of each model are outlined concerning institution size, basic unit of instruction, number of students involved, faculty roles,…

A study examined the impact of prejudice and discrimination at 18 institutions on the adjustment of 1,454 students to college. Results indicate perceived discriminatory behavior negatively affected minority-student academic/intellectual development, social experiences, and institutional commitment. Although differential effects were noted for…

The executive vice-president of the University of Pennsylvania is credited with making significant changes in both the administration and the campus, using cost-cutting and change strategies from his business experience. Outsourcing, training for employees who might be terminated, substantial savings and new revenue, and gentrification of…

Explores the possibilities for developing autonomous learners by using participation in curriculum development, collaborative learning, and self- and peer assessment. A university research-methodology curriculum unit with this aim is described. Student outcomes included increased motivation, excitement, confidence, in-depth learning, appreciation…

A study of the experiences of disabled college students in Scotland found obstacles to participation in five areas: physical environment, access to information, admission, assumptions of "normality," and levels of awareness. Even though support is available, students are being assisted around obstacles that ideally should be removed.…