Learning Resources

Abstract: Suggests that planning efforts begin not with mission statements but with key performance indicators, or KPIs, which are substantive, measurable, and specific directions that a strategic plan must address. Some of these KPIs are outside mandates, while others are internal management objectives or goals articulated by divisions or departments. The three types of KPIs form the "givens," or the foundation of the strategic plan. They take account of the various pulls on the institution, and outline more specific ways to address multiple needs and goals. Finally, they provide benchmarks against which institutions can measure the success of their planning efforts.

Abstract: Book review: Bonfire of the Humanities: Television, Subliteracy, and Long-Term Memory Loss, by David Marc, Syracuse University Press, 1995. 158 pages. ISBN 0-8156-0321-5.

Abstract: Book review: Building for the Performing Arts: A Design and Development Guide, by Ian Appleton, Butterworth Press, 1996. 225 pages. ISBN 0-7506-1276-2

Abstract: Driven by financial pressures and the need for increased, demonstrable efficiency and productivity, many colleges and universities undertake reengineering efforts to restructure their operations. The authors highlight the restructuring efforts at Bowdoin College, and offer some of the lessons learned from the process, such as informing everyone involved of the intended goals, utilizing care in choosing consultants, using pilot projects to test redesigns, and determining what is necessary for appropriate evaluation of the process.

Abstract: Maintains that the multifaceted missions of community colleges are increasingly under pressure to take on an additional primary mission: helping to rebuild their communities. In time, community colleges may evolve into something more like community service centers – an evolution already well underway at many institutions. In particular, three broad categories of initiatives undertake by the typical community college are explored: community-based education, collaborations with other local institutions; and community services. To address the expanding needs of their neighborhoods, community college may need to become more research-oriented, and increasingly take on the role of community facilitator as well as educator.

Abstract: Book review: Using Performance Indicators to Guide Strategic Decision Making, by Victor Borden and Trudy Banta (editors). New Directions for Institutional Rsearch, no. 82. Jossey-Bass, 1994. 124 pages. Assessing Performance in an Age of Accountability: Case Studies, by Gerald Gaither (editor). New DIrections for Higher Education, no. 91. Jossey-Bass, 1995. 107 pages. A Practitioner's Handbook for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Outcomes Assessment Implementation, by James Nichols and others. Third Edition. Agathon Press, 1995. 280 pages. Assessment Case Studies: Common Issues in Implementation, by James Nichols. Agathon Press, 1995. 212 pages. The departmental Guide and Record Book for Student Outcomes Assessment and Istitutional Effectiveness, by JAMes Nichols. Agathon Press, 1995. 80 pages.

Abstract: Book reviews: Interior Design, by John Pile. Second Edition. Harry Abrams Publishers, 1995. 584 pages, 748 illustrations with 181 plates in full color. ISBN 0-8109-3463-9.

Abstract: Book review: Building Community: A New Future for Architecture Education and Practice, by Ernest Boyer and Lee Mitgang. Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of teaching, 1996. 164 pages. ISBN 0-931050-59-6

Abstract: Book review: The Details of Modern Architecture, Vol 2: 1928-1988, by Edward Ford, MIT Press, 1996. 440 Pages. ISBN 0-262-06185-6.

Abstract: Documents the dramatic rise in sexual harassment charges filed between 1990 and 1995 with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) against colleges and universities. Using the case of Elizabeth Fox-Genovese and Emory University, the author demonstrates why higher education institutions are particularly susceptible to such lawsuits and, in many cases, large settlements.