The digest is drawn from "Preparing Department Chairs for Their Leadership Roles," a "New Directions for Community Colleges" volume. Two main issues regarding community college department chairs are discussed: role-related issues facing new department chairs, and training and development programs that aid in preparing…

Despite its ambiguous and often conflicting nature, the chairperson's role in instructional innovation and development is critical. Simultaneous faculty and chairperson training, coupled with planning and use of a flexible approach to innovation, can result in effective instructional innovation even under adverse circumstances. (JDS)

New academic chairs and deans can assume their new challenges with less frustration if they understand the essential elements for developing a culture of proactive change. One key concept is transformational leadership, in which leaders employ idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration…

Although the reality of change is ever present, educators are often resistant to it. Three barriers to change in colleges or other organizations are a lack of strategic vision and mission; low commitment, trust, and teamwork; and a bureaucratic organizational culture. Resistance to change can manifest itself in various ways, including regression…

To determine the effects of trends and social forces on community college administrative structure, a review was conducted of pertinent recent literature. Findings assert that traditionally, community colleges have had highly bureaucratic organizational structures and faculty with relatively low levels of educational achievement. However, dramatic…