Discusses the role and position of an educational buffer agency, as exemplified by the Swedish National Agency for Higher Education, with references to: (1) accreditation; (2) quality audit; (3) support of academic leadership; and (4) internal quality enhancement. Concludes that change is best accomplished by emphasizing support in the early…

Presents two annual reports, one of the National Endowment for the Humanities, including public-private partnerships and a directory of state humanities councils; and one of the Institute of Museum and Library Services Library Programs, which includes state-administered programs, national leadership grant programs, and the Native American Library…

Discusses changes in the state steering of universities and the impact of these changes on internal university management in Finland, where some unique university management procedures are in use. Of particular interest is the impact of the increase in external funding and the increasing competition for state funds. (SLD)

Seven articles highlight evaluations that are especially investigative in nature to examine how common elements in these studies can be used to improve evaluation and practice. The evaluator is seen as detective, ethnographer and management consultant, national program monitor and analyst, and international development specialist. (SLD)