These 14 essays address convergence--the breaking down of barriers between open and distance learning and conventional education, and the creation of more multimodal institutions. "Convergence of Distance and Conventional Education" (Tait, Mills) is an overview to the book. "Efficacy and Ethics of Using Digital Multimedia for…

An experimental MBA at Southern Methodist University is described in which the primary learning experience for students involves live projects with business organizations in the local community. A summary of results from research conducted on this program is presented, showing the comparative effectiveness of this program with a traditional one.…

A study compared content of Master's in Business Administration (MBA) curricula of 24 American institutions and 23 British institutions. Factors analyzed included program length and structure, class size, required core classes, academic course content, and program uniqueness. While British and American programs were similar, American programs…

This study investigated a teacher education program that was documented as strongly influencing graduates' teaching beliefs and actions. Interviews, observations, and document analyses found nine features explaining this phenomenon (thematic approach, cohort groups, programmatic reinforcement, professional development courses, professional conduct…

College and university learning communities build a sense of group identity. Institutions are establishing them for varied purposes and student populations, including first-year interest groups, general education core courses, gateway courses, developmental and basic studies, honors programs, and work in the major or minor. For implementation,…

Discussion of college internship programs for college students looks at their potential for experiential learning (EL), integration of EL into the curriculum, establishment of a committee to oversee EL, program standards, program models, the student's role in selecting a placement, student orientation needs, time spent on the job, coursework and…

A survey investigated the status of a program that simultaneously encourages minority health occupations graduates to pursue teaching and helps repay their student loans. The federal program, with 16 schools and 35 students participating, has been instrumental in recruiting teachers, but has not resolved financial difficulties for some…

A British national study of the university research enterprise in 1995-96 assessed the impact of a 1992 change in higher education policy to restructure the entire higher education system. The study investigated impact at the system, institution, unit, and individual levels, in the areas of research policy and strategy, structures, and processes.…

A senior foundation executive addresses a number of concerns about higher education's performance, including the low national college completion rate, decreasing minority enrollment, programs poorly designed for nontraditional students, cooperation with two-year and technical institutions, lagging minority faculty recruitment, and contributions to…

An interdisciplinary program for freshmen at Pace University (New York) focused on development of critical thinking, nonverbal communication, writing, and speaking skills. Two sections of an English course, two of a public speaking course, and one of philosophy adopted common texts, common themes, and cross-disciplinary reinforcement of skills.…

The design of a University of Hartford (Connecticut) decision-support information system for college advancement programs is detailed, specific research and management applications are examined, and the analyses and reports generated by the system are discussed. Early collaboration between institutional researchers and advancement and alumni…

A survey of alumnae of three Catholic liberal arts colleges investigated applicability of a theoretical model proposing that selected demographic, background, and opinion variables would affect alumnae giving. Results indicate that most of the demographic/background variables studied had only weak to moderate correlation with giving patterns.…

Orientation for first-year college students is important for students, parents, and the institution. It should fit institutional traditions, values, and culture, involve parents, be staffed by well-trained current students, and be carefully evaluated for improvement. Mississippi State University's program focuses on retention and is festive,…

A study of 308 communications professionals in south Florida investigated interest in graduate programs, both formal degree programs and professional continuing education. Results indicate the primary reason for enrollment in a formal degree program is not economic but perceived benefit to the employer. More minority group members wanted formal…

A discussion of dental education focuses on what constitutes competency-based education and how such a curriculum is designed. Topics addressed include desirable learning events at various stages in the learning continuum; program components; definition and assessment of outcomes; interdisciplinarity; focus on the entry-level practitioner's needs…