There have been calls to increase the autonomy of higher education institutions in Europe for a number of years. They have been counterbalanced by demands for increasing accountability and a European quality assurance system. In London in 2007, the European ministers of education decided to implement a European register of accredited quality…

This article is a case study of Tsinghua University, one of China's most influential universities, which has special national significance and strong political ties to the state. Recalling three chapters in the past century of Tsinghua's history, this paper gives an interpretive understanding of how the intertwined relationship between academia…

The popular image of the "Education Governor" was investigated, with attention to: (1) the extent to which the specific education measures proposed in inaugural and state of the state addresses of 20 "Education Governors" of the 1960s through 1980s corresponded with the subsequent actions of these officials; and (2) the…

Problems in the financing of higher education in India, particularly in the large proportion of costs borne by the government, are examined. Several policy proposals to remedy the problems, including privatization, are critically reviewed. It is concluded that there is a need for experimentation with a number of alternatives. (MSE)

In Sweden recent education policy has been aimed at the reform of higher education. This study is concerned with the political decisionmaking process in which a variety of public demands were articulated and reconciled in legislation for reform. It has three purposes: (1) analysis of this decisionmaking process; (2) reconstruction of the higher…

Sweden's newly deregulated university system, characterized by increased privatization and performance-based funding, is compared with a model of "responsive regulation" characterized by a cooperative regulatory relationship. Developments and actions during the first few years of reform are also analyzed in this context. Suggestions for…

The World Bank's recommendations for higher education policy in Africa offer an appropriate framework for comparison with recent educational policy changes in Australia, particularly in the area of university financing. Australia provides a case study of how national policies have had a dramatic and rapid effect on education and have quickly…

In both Senegal and Uganda, higher education reform will occur only if the universities have more administrative and fiscal autonomy. A shift from government participation in governance, enrollment, and use of resources in favor of more indirect control is recommended. However, the specific policy approaches recommended for the two countries…

Perspectives on excellence in education are addressed in a 1982 public hearing. Representatives from Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, and New Mexico are among the witnesses. Attention is directed to federal policy toward excellence in education and signs of improvement. It is noted that many school districts have set rigorous standards for promotion…

Concern about the legitimate role of the government in evaluating higher education institutions has developed as a result of a 1985 Dutch proposal for decentralization that combines a formal national quality control system with increased institutional autonomy through self-regulation. The issues are outlined. (MSE)

Three strategies the federal Department of Education might pursue in realizing the promise of technology in higher education are assessed: (1) maintenance of the status quo, with gradual incorporation of technology; (2) an aggressive, activist federal role in formulating new teaching and delivery systems; and (3) federal deregulation and…

There is broad recognition in Canada that offering both early childhood education to strengthen healthy development for all children and child care to support mothers' workforce participation is in the public interest. Noting that Canada does not currently provide adequate early childhood care and education, this paper examines federal/provincial…

The development of the role of higher education associations based in Washington, District of Columbia, from the 1960s to the present, is traced, with attention to events, problems, and issues. Also considered are: reasons for joining voluntary associations; the policy-making arena for higher education and the general principles that guide federal…

A discussion of British higher education policy in the 1980s looks at the relationship between government, public institutions, and citizens in conservative ideology; to what extent this strategy confronts the peculiar traditions and weaknesses of British higher education; and how it compares with other European approaches. (MSE)

A new theme in the old tension between centralization and decentralization in the governance and administration of Australian higher education is explored. The argument is that the various major attempts to restructure Australian education systems both in centralizing and decentralizing forces have gained new strength, and that the recent stated…