A descriptive study of systemwide self-studies of multicampus university systems

The purpose of this study was to examine the present status of systemwide self-studies of selected multicampus universities by determining: (I) the objectives of formal, systemwide self-studies of multicampus university systems; (2) the methods of systemwide self-studies of multicampus universities; and (3) the usefulness of the systemwide self-study approach to the multicampus university administration.

Multicampus universities were identified through the use of selection criteria. Data were collected from a questionnaire mailed to university system officers whose names had been suggested by chief administrative officers. Data were also collected from semi-structured interviews conducted at three of the multicampus universities. Interview responses were summarized and use to support the data collected from the questionnaire. Additional data were collected from self-study materials furnished by the participating universities.

Some form of systemwide self-study existed at a majority of the universities in the study. The major objective of systemwide self-study was a comprehensive evaluation of all major aspects of the entire university system.

The primary method of systemwide self-study was a highly centralized operation at the system level of administration. Systemwide self-study was initiated by the chief executive officer of the multi-campus university system.

Systemwide self-studies examined system goals and objectives, local campus gals and objectives, public service activities, instructional/learning resources and processes, and local campus policies and procedures. Principal sources of information needed for systemwide self-study involved data from system/campus administrative offices and system/campus institutional research offices.

A well-defined sense of mission, role, and scope by the system administration and constituent campuses was essential to self-study facilitation. Systemwide self-study was regarded as a separate and totally distinct activity from regular accrediting activities.

Systemwide self-study was found to be useful to the system administration of multicampus universities. Systemwide self-studies resulted in clarification of system goals and objectives, systemwide strengths and weaknesses, and improved long-term planning. Other results included major changes in organizational relationships and substantial modifications of single campus role and scope.

The high frequency of systemwide self-study activity indicated an apparent high value and confidence placed in the process by the universities participating in the study. Systemwide self-study was seen as an important component of the total academic management process as multicampus universities are directly involved in actions leading to general improvement and effective functioning and performance.