An examination of the role of the associate degree in community colleges in the United States is presented in this report, based on a review of the history of the degree; surveys of community colleges, major companies, educators, and professional associations; and the work of the National Task Force on the Redefinition of the Associate Degree. Part I outlines the evolution of the associate degree during the 20th century and identifies changes in the role of the community colleges during this period. Part II reviews the literature concerning the diversity of the associate degree, its components, ways in which it is perceived and evaluated, and recommendations for its redefinition. Part III provides an analysis of the responses of 72 of 100 community colleges, 29 of 100 high schools, and 12 of 50 Fortune 500 companies to a survey conducted to investigate the value of the associate degree and ways in which it could be improved. Part IV presents the opinions concerning the associate degree of state higher education officers, representatives of educational associations, professors of higher education, high school principals and counselors, and community college faculty and administrators. Part V presents the Task Force's conclusions and recommendations with respect to, for example, general education, degree requirements, and academic standards. Appendices include sample letters to the groups surveyed and definitions of the associate degree. (HB)