Learning Resources

Abstract: What is the capacity of online programs? Can these types of programs enroll more students than their face-to-face counterparts or not? This article looks at research on achieving cost-efficiencies through online learning, identifies the parts of an online program that can be changed to increase enrollments, and discusses whether a program’s capacity can be conceptualized as limited, static, elastic, or infinite. Misconceptions that plague thinking about capacity issues are identified and a process for calculating program capacity is outlined.

Abstract: This report from the SCUP Campus Facilities Inventory (CFI) aggregates space data submitted to the CFI survey from 2006 and 2007. Institutions submitting a CFI survey quantify how their space is allocated using classifications from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Facilities Inventory and Classification Manual (FICM).

Abstract: This paper presents an innovative approach to attracting and retaining faculty members from underrepresented populations at Appalachian State University (ASU). The need for, and benefits of, faculty diversity in academia is presented. The challenges in recruiting and retaining faculty from diverse backgrounds are discussed. The Faculty Fellows Program has been designed at ASU in order to overcome some of these challenges. This program is funded through the Provost’s office and is part of other university-wide efforts to increase on-campus diversity. We present a detailed description of the program in terms of recruiting and retention strategies and conclude with some data on the program’s progress and impact to date. The authors wish to thank Linda K. Robinson, associate vice chancellor for equity, diversity, and compliance at Appalachian State University for her contribution to the completion of this manuscript.

Abstract: Smart change is a simple yet powerful means to help administrators, faculty, staff, and stakeholders better understand the issues surrounding change initiatives at their institutions. A comparison of three approaches to change: routine, strategic, and transformative provides the foundation for improved planning by focusing on the targeted change environment. This framework provides an approach to increasing planning effectiveness through the understanding of how change affects problem solving, planning focus, change mechanisms, leadership and corresponding core competencies, overall engagement, and accountability. Institutions need to cast off “control” as their main guidance system and begin to practice a broader understanding of change.

Abstract: Greening the Ivory Tower and Degrees That Matter provide an enlightening case study of Tufts University’s sustainability initiatives over the past 17 years. While Greening the Ivory Tower could be aptly titled Lessons Learned from the Field, its sequel, Degrees That Matter, could be renamed More Lessons Learned. As companion pieces, these works offer comprehensive and accessible information for creating a campus environmental sustainability program that addresses waste reduction, energy efficiency, transportation reform, and purchasing practices.