This study investigated the usefulness of three dormitory lifestyle assignments (male-only, female-only, co-ed) in promoting student participation in residence hall activities at James Madison University (Virginia). Results showed assignment to coeducational dormitories fostered more and varied student involvement than did male-only or female-only…

Results of a longitudinal study of student experience at over 200 4-year colleges are summarized. The study focused on student outcomes and how they are affected by college environments. Key findings are discussed for three areas: academic development, personal development, and satisfaction. (MSE)

Some universities have responded to the need for leadership and staff development activities as a result of, or as part of, the quality improvement movement. The principles of the Total Quality Management approach are as germane to the academic institution as to business but may need some adaptation to the academic culture. (MSE)

An annotated list cites reports, books, and other resources for institutional research into campus diversity. It includes studies undertaken by individual institutions, often including assessment instruments, organizational resources, books and articles, and electronic mail lists. (MSE)

Discusses the conflict between rationalist and constructivist models and argues for student affairs practices informed by both approaches. University administrators must create an environment in which students and other members of the college community can interact, but student affairs professionals must choose what works best in their schools.…

Examination of the relationship between academic learning and group relations suggests that the study of each can inform the other. A partnership between the study of group relations and the study of literary theory could give new insights into teaching and learning as discursive practices, power relations in the college classroom, and sources of…

A 1989 survey of 1,800 first-year pharmacy students from 18 schools identified factors in pharmacy school selection and compared findings with 1985 data. Factors considered include institutional reputation, academic environment, finances, degrees offered, curricular options, advising, and student characteristics. Institutional reputation and…

In response to declining enrollments, Regis University (Colorado) is looking to increase retention and graduation rates by improving campus life. Efforts include creation and renewal of academic clubs and athletic teams, a program to ensure availability of student employment on campus, and a first-year seminar combining teaching, advising, and…

The fact that student protests over racial issues have arisen early in the academic year and at a time when most college administrators affirm protesters' goals (improved minority recruitment and services) may be partly attributable to students' rising expectations. Some protests are a result of overt racial incidents, often in fraternities. (MSE)

Evaluation of a graduate course in educational research, within a professional development for teachers, is discussed. The course was modularized and taught in varied contexts and locations and by different instructors overseas, is discussed. Issues arising during the development of a course evaluation instrument are examined, and development of…

A survey of 123 women enrolled in Canadian graduate programs in educational administration found that, although some found a relatively warm professional climate for women, for many the experience was not positive. Devaluation of female faculty, counseling of women out of administration, sexist language, and other evidence of sexism were found.…

Faculty, staff, and students at San Francisco State University (California), most of whose lives are touched by Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), have responded by rallying to help AIDS sufferers in need, by including AIDS information in courses, offering confidential testing, and becoming sensitized to gay and related issues. (MSE)

Argues that a multicultural university begins with presidential leadership that can produce a diverse faculty, staff, and administration. Recommends minority faculty development, recruitment, tenuring and promotion as an effective institutional strategy. Urges becoming "inclusive" rather than "exclusive." (NL)

Development and validation of the Ethical Climate Index, designed to measure perceived ethical climate of an institution's graduate and professional school programs, is described. The instrument was found to be valid and reliable, and variability was found in student perceptions of ethical climate across major academic areas. Research needs are…

A review of the literature on minority underrepresentation in higher education and issues specific to community colleges suggests several solutions, including improved institutional commitment to hiring for diversity among faculty and administrators, multicultural expertise as a qualification for some positions, more hospitable campus and…