The operation of the institutional research unit at Fayetteville State University is discussed. It is suggested that small institutional research offices can survive periods of financial restraint and maintain the quality of research through the use of innovative and efficient techniques. (Author/SF)

There are many ways a school district can reduce the cost of insuring employees, equipment, and buildings. (Author/MLF)

This theoretical model for message design directs the designer to design a block of time that optimizes the information load and message complexity within the constraints of the receiver's abilities and experience, the requirements of the source, and the capabilities and limitations of the medium. (Author/JEG)

As dictation skills are becoming more important in controlling business correspondence costs, the article presents approaches to teaching dictation practice after students have learned letter organization in business communication classes. Approaches include cooperative projects with office procedures and shorthand classes, using dictation…

Various cost analysis techniques for colleges and universities are discussed. The role of dean, department head, and provost or president in the procedure are described. A technique that limits the potential for misuse and helps academic administrators is recommended. (BH)

Technological advances in nonproprietary software are discussed. Developments in general support of software and in computer hardware are examined. It is suggested that nonproprietary software is a resource that can save colleges and universities system development time and costs. (Author/SF)

Selection of and search for appropriate instructional materials should begin while writing instructional objectives during the curriculum planning process. A five-phase system to help the teacher make selection decisions, in consultation with the school media specialist, is presented. (MF)

A state-by-state cost comparison has been added to AS&U's annual analysis and indicates that school budgets may be in deep trouble. (Author/MLF)

The former Deputy Secretary at the Department of Education and Science in Great Britain discusses a fundamental question for those concerned with all forms of postsecondary education. Focus is on the value of education for adults and the quality of that education. (LBH)

Direct-mail communication with potential college applicants can be a highly effective way of increasing an institution's applicant pool or it can be an expensive waste of time and money. Techniques learned by the Student Search Service are discussed along with other factors such as response rate, cost, editorial and graphic quality, and honesty.…

Describes 21 completed projects now using solar energy for heating, cooling, or electricity. Included are elementary schools in Atlanta and San Diego, a technical school in Detroit, and Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. (MLF)

Describes the use of distance learning for a lesser-taught foreign language course at the University of California at Berkeley that was sent to two other campuses and lowered the per-pupil cost. The use of videoconferencing, electronic mail, and a World Wide Web home page are explained, and problems are discussed. (LRW)

The Philadelphia School District has a five-step program of site-based-management prerequisites for schools: (1) absolute support from the top administration; (2) clear and fair allocation formulas on which each school's budget is to be based; (3) universal understanding of any restrictions, rules, or guidelines; (4) full explanation of budget…

Clifford Stoll's skeptical look at the computer mania besetting education raises issues about computerization and networking costs, the relationship between accessing information and becoming educated, and the role of human interaction in learning. By placing the computer before the curriculum, are proponents providing the best education possible…