National data indicate that sexual harassment complaints at colleges and universities has more than doubled in the last two years. It is unclear whether this reflects change in occurrence or increased awareness and willingness to file a claim. Documentation, trained assistance, and adequate institutional policy are seen as needed. (MSE)

A discussion of politics in legal education focuses on the role of political neutrality in law schools and its relationship to academic freedom. It is argued that both academic freedom and good legal scholarship are best fostered by intellectual diversity among and specialization within law schools. (MSE)

Structural constraints in colleges that hinder cooperation between academic and student affairs staff are examined, and specific strategies for overcoming them are suggested. These strategies include both changes in policies and administrative structures and development of initiatives that foster partnerships. (MSE)

A study compared the support provided by the University of Washington's Freshman Interest Group (FIG) program, which emphasizes interaction with faculty and peers, as compared with support provided in a traditional academic structure. Results confirm that FIGs provide more support, especially through classmates, but produce no overall difference…

Data from survey of 872 African-American students at predominantly white colleges and 928 at historically black colleges suggest that academic achievement is highest for students who have higher educational aspirations, positive faculty relationships, confidence in their college choice. Beyond individual characteristics, academic performance is…

The relationship between church and college rests on shared commitments and mutual benefit. Maintenance of mutual trust and confidence requires that faculty and administrators affirm their shared mission, and keep curriculum content and campus life consonant with it. Such a relationship enables conflict resolution and advancement of denominational…

The relationship between the history of the student and contemporary student life is explored, and enduring patterns are identified in three areas: the social origins of students; student culture and activism; and the perceived academic quality of students. It is concluded that students should be heard and taken more seriously. (MSE)

As college students become more diverse, there is more conflict on campus. Elements in these conflicts include confusion about the concept of equality, the idea that difference entails opposition, and the assumption that a particular set of human characteristics is fundamentally better than another. Commitment to diversity is commitment to…

Illustrates the use of collaborative learning groups (CLGs) to help student learning. Finds that students did better on test material that was discussed in group sessions; that connections to classmates increased significantly; and that the great majority of students lauded the use of CLGs. (DB)

A theoretical model of organizational and administrative climate is presented that controls for effects of individual and institutional characteristics and predicts critical dimensions of the academic workplace including academic innovation, work challenge, and professionalism. Institutional mission and goals focusing on undergraduate education…

Although sociologists are concerned about trends among African-American males, Morehouse College (Georgia), the United States' only all-male black college, has developed a reputation for its stable environment, positive role models, and commitment to producing well-educated citizens and leaders. (MSE)

According to responses to a survey of 197 older adult learners, access, comfort, and convenience were better in College of the Emeriti classes held in continuing education centers than in main campus classes. Class location and design of the physical environment should be considered to ensure their appropriateness for the growing numbers of adult…

High-profile athletic programs contribute to the collegiate ideal and are used by many institutions to provide connections to their internal and external constituencies. The magnitude of major athletic events contributes to and in some cases defines institutional image, even serving as a surrogate for the more intimate community-building…

The mission embraced by urban universities creates an environment for intellectual inquiry and purposeful societal action equal or superior to the notion of "collegiate ideal." They have expanded the concept of place, encompassing society in general and the urban community in particular, by maintaining a commitment to educating urban populations…

Increasingly, colleges and universities are establishing retirement communities on or near campus to attract active and generous alumni. The communities provide opportunities for continuing education and intergenerational contact. The working relationships between institutions and retirement communities are varied. Suggestions are made for…