The use of contracts in individualizing experiential learning programs is explained, its research base outlined, and sample contracts and performance objectives provided. The strategy is encouraged in part as a way for liberal arts faculty to shift roles from transmitter of knowledge to facilitator of self-directed inquiry. (MSE)

Full institutionalization of experiential learning programs remains a major challenge for educators. Their reasons for resistance to change and strategies for overcoming it are discussed. A checklist for change agents is provided. (MLW)

Advice is given to the individual college about three main kinds of variables to take into account in analyzing all the economic effects of programs for awarding credit to students in recognition of prior learning: process variables, student variables, and institutional variables. (Author/MSE)

Undergraduates can play a large role in their peers' experiential learning. A peer facilitator program must use sound principles of recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation, and can have both immediate and lasting benefits for the students involved. (MSE)

The composite-portfolio approach, combining all major systems of assessing prior learning of adults for degree credits, is described as exemplified by methods of Empire State College of the State University of New York. Illustrations include evaluation statements, outline of an actual degree program, and an evaluation policy statement. (MSC)

The issue of the costs and financial aspects of the assessment of prior learning is discussed from the point of view of program managers and others responsible for ensuring high quality, cost-efficient academic programs. Rationales and models currently in use are examined. (MLW)

The role of the cooperative education program coordinator, vital to the success of the program, is shown to include student advising, job placement, and liaison with employers and with teaching faculty and administrators. Guidelines are suggested. (Author/LBH)

Periodic assessment of cooperative education programs is shown to provide a sound information basis for future program directions. A comorehensive evaluation model is described that focuses on what is done, how it is done, and why it is important. Specific goals are outlined. (Author/LBH)

Sources for additional information about cooperative education are provided. Approximately 40 books, reports, and articles are listed, along with four agencies and professional societies and information about grants from the U.S. Office of Education. (LBH)

It is suggested that student learning through cooperative education programs should be evaluated in terms of stated objectives, and that it should be the basis for awarding degree credit. Purposes of, responsibility for, time of, and means of evaluation are discussed. (Author/LBH)

As personal portfolio assessment matures, practitioners continue to look for techniques that enhance both personal development and the process of seeking academic credit through assessment. Kolb's experiential learning theory and learning style inventory may have applications in this search. (Author)

Five contributors identify essential means for the college to assure high standards, quality control, and consistency in assessing the prior learning of adults. Types of learning include work or military experience and life experience; assessment methods include examination, portfolio examination, and competence-based programs. (Author/MSE)

Implementing cooperative education requires careful planning, institutional support, and competent staffing. Suggestions for planning, setting objectives, recruiting students, job development, student counseling and placement, liaison with other colleges offices, and institutionalization are described. (Author/LBH)