Learning Resources

Abstract: Universities, like other organizations, are affected by many interrelated influences and systems. In the early 1980s, because of its below average freshmen-to-sophomore year retention rates for an institution of its type, large developmental enrollment, and poor graduation rates, Louisiana State University and A & M (LSU) did not compare to other major state universities in terms of student success rates. Using a systems theory approach to analyzing the affect of inputs on outputs, this article describes the efforts that were made to transform the quality and completion rates of undergraduate students at LSU by changing the criteria for the admission of new freshmen.

Abstract: Institutions of higher education, and their leadership, are confronted with a “new reality” characterized by the influence of powerful external forces and stressful internal change. Planners, and the planning and management systems that they help design and service, can be instrumental in supporting university presidents as they execute their leadership agendas. Planners can enhance their effectiveness, and planning itself, by developing a deeper understanding of their institutions as complex organizations in general, and as political systems in particular. Also, by understanding planning as a political process and the role of the president as a political leader, planners can enhance their contributions to the institutions they serve.

Abstract: Universities, like other organizations, are affected by many interrelated influences and systems. In the early 1980s, because of its below average freshmen-to-sophomore year retention rates for an institution of its type, large developmental enrollment, and poor graduation rates, Louisiana State University and A & M (LSU) did not compare to other major state universities in terms of student success rates. Using a systems theory approach to analyzing the affect of inputs on outputs, this article describes the efforts that were made to transform the quality and completion rates of undergraduate students at LSU by changing the criteria for the admission of new freshmen.

Abstract: Many prognosticators see emerging digital technologies as resulting in the demise of a significant number of institutions of higher education. Institutions at greatest risk are those that do not identify and prepare to compete in clearly defined market niches. This article proposes several market niches and faculty roles within these niches. A risk assessment instrument is provided by which the leadership of an institution can judge the degree to which their institution is at risk.

Abstract: Spain has experienced a period of profound change affecting its political, social, and economic systems in the last two decades. These changes, in turn, have affected the higher education system considerably. Because they have taken place over a short period of time, these changes have created a dynamic situation. Although the consequences of most of these changes have been extremely positive, some unintended negative effects have also occurred. Both positive and negative consequences of the fast change are discussed in this article.