Shares observations about factors critical in the outcomes of the review of Ohio's state-supported doctoral programs in English. Details some of the responsibilities and challenges that both the departments and review panel faced in developing extensive self-studies. Argues that departments should address mismatches or anomalies in their programs.…

Considers that ever since distance learning technology has enabled colleges and universities to offer courses to students who might otherwise not be able to earn college credit, resistance has emerged on pedagogical or fiscal grounds. Notes that most students in distance learning composition classes indicate that they would participate in such a…

Offers guidelines that specify the kinds of information that will assist faculties in identifying and rectifying problems in their graduate programs. Directs attention to eight areas: department goals; graduate admissions; retention and attrition of students; financial support for students; preparing students for careers within and outside the…

Traces the historically optimistic view of college-secondary school cooperation. Asks why such optimism has faded in recent years. Considers how college-level departments of English can collaborate with high school English programs, such as in collaborative conferences. (HB)

Considers how departments of English can evaluate the effectiveness of the curriculum and teaching throughout the entire program. Outlines the way that the joint English department at the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University developed a full-scale assessment program for the undergraduate major. (HB)

The requirements for the doctoral degree in English and the need for college English teachers are discussed. Three possible courses of action are considered--(1) to do nothing, (2) to adopt an intermediate degree, and (3) to transform the Ph.D. into a more suitable degree for contemporary conditions. The value of the intermediate degree is…

Explains how an English department used a self-study report to acquire much-needed additional funding and improvements for its physical plant. (AEA)

Focuses attention on means of preparing and improving college staff, and outlines those points which college department heads must consider when evaluating faculty programs. (RB)

Investigates the issues and procedures of assessment in English and considers what advice the Association of Departments of English can usefully offer to departments and chairs engaged with the problem of developing assessment initiatives, especially initiatives focused on the documentation of student learning. Discusses comments from the field in…

Suggests guidelines for departments and institutions regarding information technology; guidelines dealing with the hiring, reappointment, tenure, and promotion processes designed to help departments and faculty members implement effective evaluation procedures; and guidelines that recommend the minimal reference information that should be provided…

Presents guidelines that specify the kinds of information that will assist modern language faculties to identify and rectify problems in their graduate programs before it is necessary to justify the size or existence of those programs. Focuses on programs leading to the PhD degree, although questions relating to master's degrees are included where…

Higher education's direct responsibility for certain aspects of the contemporary civil and social disorders is discussed, and the university is viewed as an institution of American society which perpetuates class and race discrimination. Recommendations are made for feasible reform of the "elitest" educational structure through greater awareness…

Racism, the ways in which it is manifested in higher education, and the effectiveness of its manifestations are discussed. The following proposals suggesting how English departments can contribute to the diminution of racism were made: (1) that single academic standards be required for black and white students in freshman English classes, (2) that…