Dateline 2000: the new higher education agenda

The Story

In his provocative work on the future of American higher education, author Dale Parnell, president of the American Association of Community & Junior Colleges, goes beyond mere analysis of current societal or collegial problems to forecast the directions that higher education might take in response. If institutions of higher learning are to keep pace with societal forces of change - population growth, economic development, technology - they must be prepared to respond, even in the face of impending faculty shortages, increasing operational costs, & growing dissatisfaction among the at-risk population. The key is to recognize & take advantage of the external windows of opportunity, outlined by Parnell, & at the same time, resolve the internal restraints to educational progress. Indeed preparation, planning, & prescience are called for, particularly on the part of today's higher education leaders, to meet tomorrow's challenges. Supported by a wealth of current data, complemented by the views of educational, civic, & business leaders, DATELINE 2000 tracks current trends & forecasts possible future action.