Learning Resources

Abstract: Can a new kind of cost accounting help financial planning? Subtitles: What About Higher Education?; Other Advantages. Pull quotes: "Activity-based costing provides a better understanding of the factors that drive costs." "ABC can be used to show that a college or university has a clear picture of its costs and is acting to reduce them."

Abstract: Book review: The American University: National Tresure or Endangered Species?, edited by ROnald Ehrenberg, COnrnell University Press, 1997. 170 pages. ISBN 0-8014-3350-9

Abstract: Book Review: Privacy and the Handling of Student Information in the Electronic Networked Environments of Colleges and Universities. CAUSE, 1997.52 pages

Abstract: Calls for a reexamination of the way in which higher education institutions select their leaders. The prevalence of the "lame-duck" syndrome, exacerbated by resignations up to a year in advance and the appointment of interim leaders to serve while searches for permanent leaders take place, has repercussions throughout the institution in terms of willingness to take risk and to implement substantive change. Proposes some possible alternatives to the current system of recruitment and replacement as a means of facilitating strong leadership on campus.

Abstract: Book Review: A foundation to Uphold: A study of Facilities Conditions at U.S. Colleges and Univerities, by Harvey Kaiser, research report by Jerry Davis. The Association of higher Education Facilities officers, 1996. 195 pages. ISBN 0-913359-96-3.

Abstract: Typically, it is asserted that the key to getting people to accept change is to "get the process right." However, the author maintains that too much time is spent on process, to the near-exclusion of examining the reasons why people act as they do. Surveys views of human nature from Freud to Marx to Madison in an attempt to summarize just a few of the most popular frameworks for understanding human behavior. Keeping such frameworks in mind when enacting strategic change may make the difference between success and failure.

Abstract: For too long, the authors contend, endowment management strategies have not been linked with overall financial management at most colleges and universities. Advocates a comprehensive, objective approach to financial planning and management which does not separate investment management from the other financial management operations of the institution. Discusses potential goals for design and implementation of integrated strategic financial planning and investing, including a five-step process for investment management.

Abstract: Reflects on the growing trend to link construction and renovation with income-producing schemes: conferences, institutes, receptions, lectures, and other special events organized by outside groups in need of appropriate facilities. Focuses in particular on retail and hotel accommodations and fitness facilities as primary vehicles for generating revenues.

Abstract: Book review: Restructuring Higher Education: What Works and What Doesn't in Reorganizing Governing Systems, edited bt TErrence MacTaggert, Jossey-Bass, 1996. 260 pages. ISBN 0-7879-0193-8.

Abstract: They distrust each other but need each other. Is there hope for better relations? Subtitles: The big change in education reporting; What can be done?; Pull quotes: "Neither the typical academic nor the average journalist understands well what the other does." "There has been a major shift in the way the American press treats education." "Be as open with the press as you possibly can. And be open quickly." "The public relations officer should be as accomplished as the financial vice president or dean of the law school." "Colleges and universities will need to plan more strategically to educate legislators and the public."