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.…

The role of the college or university chief financial officer in institutional risk management is (1) to identify risk (physical, casualty, fiscal, business, reputational, workplace safety, legal liability, employment practices, general liability), (2) to develop a campus plan to reduce and control risk, (3) to transfer risk, and (4) to track and…

Explores the relationship between service learning and organizational commitment by examining the complexities of faculty and organizational culture, including administrative support, campus familiarity with course-based service, financial support, the nature of faculty involvement, and faculty work and rewards. Makes practical suggestions for…

Examines the extent to which Latino students' background characteristics and college experiences in the first and second years contribute to their sense of belonging in the third year. Identifies several experiences as having a positive effect on first year students and notes the negative effect of a hostile racial climate. (MJP)

Issues facing historically disadvantaged universities in South Africa are examined, focusing on their impact on the cognitive development of students. It is concluded that students' cognitive development is a strategic matter, requiring the coherent effort of a whole institution rather than being the exclusive province of any specialized units.…