The perceptions of academic deans of environmental factors that predict their perceived fit at their institutions were studied. The dependent variable was the deans' level of agreement with the statement that the university was a good place to work, a statement operationalized as an indicator of perceived fit. Data were collected from 821 deans as…

University department heads in the United States and Australia function under increased uncertainty and stress: diverse student populations; funding shortages; demands for quality; downsizing; balancing academic/administrative roles. Article examines environmental pressures on these administrators explores strategies department heads in the two…

Suggestions are given for institutional action to reduce unproductive tension in the professoriate, focusing on stresses related to reward and recognition, time constraints, departmental influence, professional identity, and student interaction. (MSE)

Four prerequisites for college and university departmental change and renewal have been suggested: dedication to teamwork; collective dialog and inquiry about effective teaching; commitment to quality control and rewarding collective goals; and leadership of a purposeful chair. These are discussed in relation to conditions mitigating against…