Presents a brief discussion of the challenges presented to mathematics education by changes in social dependence on mathematics, in professional response to the needs of students, in institutional expectations of students and teachers, and in student demographics and expectations. Provides an extended outline for a syllabus used to clearly…

Reports the findings of a study examining developmental mathematics courses at two-year colleges in the Virginia Community College System. Argues that remediation is a core function of higher education and a good investment for society, as well as for colleges and universities. Discusses data on credit hours, enrollment, attendance, class size,…

Describes a cross-curricular mathematics and physics course offered at Kanazawa Technical College in Japan. The course facilitates students' understanding of the connection between mathematics and physics through hands-on activities. Outlines the advantages of the cross-curricular approach, including students' increased levels of interest in…

Outlines the model for postsecondary reform of mathematics, science, engineering, technology, and communications education developed by the South Carolina Advanced Technological Center for Excellence. Presents an integrated, problem-based curriculum; collaborative teaching strategies; and extensive active learning techniques designed to increase…

Discusses mathematics education in colleges of technology in Japan. Proposes new approaches based on the introduction of several specific engineering themes in the program, which are revisited at later stages of the educational program. Discusses factors motivating the search for a new approach to mathematics education, as well as its advantages…

Discusses a new computer mathematics curriculum introduced at the Department of Information and Network at Tokai University, Takanawa Campus, Japan. Outlines the reform project consisting of sections on mathematical literacy and computer mathematics as well as the use of personal computers. (KS)

Presents interviews with Dr. William H. Maehl, author of "Lifelong Learning at its Best: Innovative Practices in Adult Credit Programs," and Dr. Tony Zeiss, president of Central Piedmont Community College (North Carolina). Asserts that lifelong learners need flexible scheduling, credit for life experience, and a variety of degree or certificate…

Uses the examples of remedial education, K-16 initiatives, and workforce preparation to illustrate how these values influence higher education policy at community colleges. Policymakers should recognize that these values may conflict, therefore leading to controversy. States that cultural/social values dominating the development of educational…

Reports the findings of a study investigating the learning preferences of two cohorts: the Baby Boomers and the Generation Xers. Finds that the differences in learning between the two groups profoundly impact the tasks of educators, and asserts that teachers need to be trained regarding the different learning styles and teaching strategies. (NB)

States that community colleges should play a key role in educational reform, especially as stakeholders in the realignment of K-12 strategies to improve student achievement. Reports on a community college in Detroit that created a solution-focused counseling technique to train parents and community leaders to communicate and advocate for changes…

Asserts that contemporary students feel alienated by the 'one-to-many' relationship brought upon by lecture courses, self-directed CD-ROMS, and huge college Web sites. Examines ways this silence can be broken. States that educators can use high-tech devices such as e-mail as a basis for connecting with diverse students. Suggests using a creative…

Describes a philosophy and outlines a process that enables institutions to sustain their values while providing evidence of their effectiveness. States that by shifting institutional focus to documentation of student achievement, institutions create a framework to convert implied learning assumptions into explicit learning outcomes. Asserts that…

Discusses why community college students go into early childhood education and the day care profession. Cites one study that found that day care workers define their self-worth through their relationships with the children they care for, rather than through the identification of their occupational skills. Concludes that those who enter early…

Examines the role and apprehension levels of faculty in institutional governance, presenting findings from a survey of 201 community colleges. Finds that males continue to dominate faculty governance bodies, that communication apprehension levels are moderate, and the female leaders tend to have a more process-oriented perspective on work. (NB)

Describes the leadership styles of four generations of community college presidents: the founding fathers, the good managers, the collaborators, and the millennium generation. Predicts a shift in style from the participatory approach of the 1990s to one that allows for spontaneous responses to workforce training needs, globalization, and…