Accreditation is examined in a book designed to be both a general reference and training tool. Many aspects of accreditation are covered: how it works, its impact, why it is often misunderstood or misused, how it is being adapted to educational innovations, and how it can be used to improve educational quality. The authors discuss the growth of accreditation, its distinguishing features as a voluntary system of self-regulation, and ways it affects its many constituencies. Objectives, procedures, and problems are detailed. The book is organized in five sections: (1) what accreditation is; (2) institutions' role; (3) accrediting bodies; (4) beneficiaries, users, and special interests, and (5) developing practices in accreditation. Among the 18 chapters and authors are:"Accreditation: Voluntary Enterprise" (Fred F. Harcleroad); "Accreditation: Self-Regulation" (Elaine El-Khawas); "Accreditation: Misuses and Misconceptions" (Louis W. Bender); "How To Make Accreditation a Constructive Experience" (Lloyd H. Elliott); "Improving Institutional Performance through Self-Study" (H. R. Kells); "Characteristics of an Accrediting Body" (Charles M. Chambers); "Specialized Accreditation" (Robert Glidden); "Students and Accreditation" (Joan S. Stark and Ann E. Austin); and "Trends in the Regulation of the Professions" (Corrine W. Larson). Appended are a list of accrediting groups recognized by the Council on Postsecondary Accreditation, procedures for becoming recognized as an accrediting agency; guidelines on interagency cooperation; a policy statement on the role and value of accreditation; and a glossary. (LB)