Examines reasons for community colleges' return to mandatory testing and placement in courses/programs where students have a reasonable expectation of success. Looks at the use and success of other retention strategies, including orientation programs, tutors, and integrated support services. (DMM)

Reviews the development of the transfer function in California community colleges, supplying data confirming that community colleges function not only as career, community, and compensatory education centers, but as institutions in which students desiring baccalaureate degrees matriculate, albeit differently from a generation ago. (DMM)

Reflects on the long personal and professional relationship between the author and Dr. Raymond Schultz. Analyzes the changing function of community colleges since the 1960s and examines three recent shifts in the community college concept. Suggests that community college education programs should emphasize a historical perspective. (CAM)

Notes the decline of humanities curricula due to the association of humanities instruction with transfer education. Outlines five corrective measures related to the utilization of interdisciplinary courses, increased liaison between humanities and community services staff, utilization of nontraditional instructional techniques, and the development…

Examines recent trends in general education, discussing its importance, definitions of general education, and its inconsistent status. Provides three examples of successful general education programs, as well as an ideal model for a community college program. (AYC)

Drawing from reports on the future of community colleges, summarizes trends in enrollments, curriculum, student achievement, institutional research, and accountability for educational outcomes. (DMM)