The Traditional Institution and Continuing Higher Education.

Overview & Synopsis

Functions of the continuing education office of a higher education institution are discussed. Continuing education offices usually offer not-for-credit courses, including personal enrichment and specialized professional courses. Summer sessions are the major activity of the office, and conferences may also be conducted by off-campus groups and professional organizations. Once an idea for a course is introduced attention is directed to questions regarding potential clientele and enrollment, course length, credit or noncredit status, and cost options. Although growth potential still exists for continuing education through degree programs for adults, competition is intense among higher education institutions, local school districts, and proprietary schools. Institutions may engage contractors in surveying the market for continuing education, publicity, program development, site selection and arrangements, program delivery, billing, and financing. Outside contractors customarily offer previously developed and prepackaged educational programs in nontraditional modes, which may emphasize independent study, weekend programs, and forms of programmed instruction. There is still resistance to continuing education at many traditional higher education institutions. (SW)