Learning Resources

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: This study examined the quality and the factors which contributed positively and negatively to the quality of some selected students residential facilities in Nigeria. A user-perspective approach was adopted. The quality of the selected facilities was examined at three levels of environmental interaction and from architectural and social dimensions. Twenty purpose-built halls of residence were selected from four Universities in Nigeria and two thousand students were selected from these halls using the stratified method of sampling. The results revealed that students’ halls of residence were perceived to be below average in overall quality and the attributes which contributed the most to this low level of quality were the socio-physical characteristics. Out of the three levels of interaction examined, the bedroom was the only level that was assessed as poor in quality. The results further showed that the social unit size defined at the level of the bedroom as well as the bedroom for studying were the factors, which contributed most negatively to overall quality, signifying their importance. Finally, the implications of the findings for planning and designing future residential facilities were highlighted.

Abstract: Effective strategic planning for community colleges contains four key elements:
- It must be mission driven.
- It must be integrated with capability and resources.
- It must define measurable standards for determining outcomes.
- It must be transparent in its intent and strategic goals to all levels of the organization. Using a planning matrix, Brookdale Community College provides planning information and a useful communication tool for the entire college community.

Abstract: The Neglected Majority represents that 70 to 80 percent of our nation's population who, for a myriad of reasons, do not hold baccalaureate degrees. In 1985, Dale Parnell, Ed.D., described this Neglected Majority for the first time in one of the most influential works in the history of the community college movement. This article presents some concepts and strategies to help with program and enrollment planning for this critical mass. The article explores the impact of The Neglected Majority publication and includes a recent conversation with Parnell. The author argues that the promise of solutions for The Neglected Majority have not been realized both to the detriment of community colleges, four-year institutions, and society as a whole.

Abstract: To provide access to and retain both students of color and low-income students, community colleges must change to create environments in which all students can succeed. Change strategies must focus on the core mission of the institution and rely on data regarding the experiences of students at the institution. When student data are used to inform the planning and decision-making processes at a college, a "culture of evidence" is fostered. This article explores how colleges in the "Achieving the Dream: Community Colleges Count," a funded national initiative, use the Community College Inventory of: Persistence, Learning, and Attainment, to develop a culture of evidence.

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.