Learning Resources

Abstract: Too often, Boards of Trustees feel that final approval of the institution's Strategic Plan is sufficient. However, most Plans will only be successfully implemented if the Board has complete ownership and a commitment to be actively involved in many areas of the institution (not only fund raising). This article describes a successful process and key strategies to develop Board engagement and ownership of the Strategic Plan and ongoing involvement in the successful implementation of the Plan.

Abstract: A look at the long-term impact of trends on the future of higher education suggests that climate change, access to energy post-peak oil production, as well as globalism and international terrorism are the major externalities to be considered in strategic planning.

Abstract: This study addresses several common shortcomings of current university campus sustainability initiatives, including a lack of attention to integrative issues such as land use, housing, and transportation, and a generally reactive rather than proactive approach to sustainability. To engage these concerns, we develop a model for assessing the relative sustainability of three different future configurations of campus land use, including a "current trends" scenario and two "smart growth" scenarios. The model uses computer-based mapping software to measure a set of six sustainability indicators for each land use scenario. We test the model using the University of Michigan's North Campus as a case analysis.

Abstract: The changing economy is increasing the significance of community colleges. While community colleges have served an important role in higher education, their importance and value to individuals and society is at an all time high. While community college characteristics have made these institutions attractive, the underserved population and the American economy depend on community colleges to supply knowledge and skills necessary in today's economy. The financial stability of the underserved population, the American economy, and society depend on these relatively overlooked, under-funded, and misrepresented community colleges. It is imperative that those who are underserved improve their consciousness of work, money, and education for the benefit of themselves and the economy. Community colleges are the only postsecondary institutions currently positioned to take a lead role in this effort and America must assist them in this endeavor.

Abstract: Creating a campus master plan is the first step in the process of managing enrollment growth; however, the plan is not just a document about buildings and parking spaces and classrooms and square footage. The plan should be viewed as an investment in the future of the institution and a way to link the college's mission and vision statements to the physical learning environment. This article examines the planning process, with special emphasis on community and consensus building, using case studies from two rapidly growing community college districts in Texas and California.

Abstract: In learning-centered community colleges, planning, like all processes, must measurably improve learning and learner performance. This article shares Valencia Community College's approach to revising its strategic planning process based on the Organizational Elements Model to: 1) focus strategic planning on learning results that add value for learners and the communities the college serves; 2) ensure that the process of planning is a learning opportunity for the institution and its stakeholders; and 3) ensure that college plans are integrated by aligning them according to their contribution to meeting societal needs, defined as gaps in results.