Comments on the Evolution and Integration of Coordinating Board Functions: Invited Critique of Current Research. ASHE 1985 Annual Meeting Paper.

Issues of statewide control and coordination of higher education are discussed, based on the experience of the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. The conclusions of two papers are also briefly considered: "State Control of Public Universities and Its Relationship to Academic Quality: Results of a National Study" (Frederick Volkwein); and "Toward the Study of Functional Linkages in Statewide Agencies for Higher Education" (Nancy Jo Westphal). Both papers suggest that existing program review mandated by a statewide board has little impact on quality at public, doctoral-granting research universities. The functions of the Indiana governing board have been performed differently according to the needs at different time periods. The period from 1971 to 1973 was one of growth and differentiation in and among campuses, while the period from 1974 to 1978 involved the development of technical competence and the establishment of databases to promote planning/decision making. The period from 1978 to 1985 included further database/computing development, and planning for cooperative ventures and technologies to provide access. Since late 1983, accountability has been emphasized. Since functions varied during these periods, the board's activities might give the impression of being neither integrated nor balanced. (SW)