Learning Resources

Abstract: This article presents reasons for and against in-house master planning and provides recommendations for those who might be tempted to pursue this activity. The article is the result of reflections on the recent in-house production of a facilities master plan for Mesa State College.

Abstract: In 1998, the Texas legislature wanted to change the health-related institutions’ appropriations method to formula funding using the 1992 space model. Many legislators questioned the accuracy and validity of this model due to large predictions of unmet space needs. At the request of the Senate Committee on Finance, the commissioner of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board appointed an Advisory Committee consisting of representatives from all 11 Texas health-related institutions to review the 1992 model. This article describes the consensus environment and process that fostered the development of the January 1999 compromise space model.

Abstract: Campus leaders frequently feel restricted by the limited menu of options at their disposal when attempting to secure input or participation from constituencies across the campus. This article explores one innovative technique, open space technology, which has shown to produce both meaningful involvement and results across a number of campuses, whether in strategic planning, curriculum reform, teaching, or cross-unit problem solving.

Abstract: This study discusses two important topics: participation and strategic change. The paper considers why participation is seen as necessary in higher education, why participation seems not to have aided strategic planning and change processes, and if those processes are inherently flawed. Information from interviews with selected persons with experience as administrators and as faculty and from research literature provide the foundation for an exploration of how participation and processes can be improved and facilitated.

Abstract: This article describes and examines a new approach to planning at the system level of a large Midwestern university, the University of Missouri. It is addressed to planners, researchers, and practitioners who want to introduce new approaches and techiques for planning and management at the system level of higher education.