This collection of selected papers covers a variety of community college topics taken from a series of conferences sponsored by Northern Illinois University. The first describes a systems approach to individualized instruction in which appropriate learning experiences are assigned each student based on the results of a set of diagnostic procedures. The system is self-directed, self-administered and scheduled within broad time constraints. A detailed review of a case study in individualized instruction is then presented with all of the necessary forms and outlines developed for the course. The papers which follow present: (1) a review of a sample student information sheet prepared for a developmental learning lab; (2) a brief outline of the main points incorporated into a program for individualizing mathematics instruction; (3) an educational application of program evaluation and review technique (PERT) in the establishment of occupational programs; (4) a discussion of the Illinois Junior College Act as it relates to student services; (5) a plan for more effective counseling of occupational students; (6) the extent and nature of student activism in the community college; (7) some thoughts on articulation; and (8) a discussion on how to create an appropriate college climate to foster change and innovation, improve instruction and efficiency of operation, and make offerings meaningful and geared to student needs. The closing paper is a comparative analysis of some of the differences found in 39 community college associate degree programs in nursing. (AL)