Report on a Comprehensive Evaluation of Bennington College: An Evaluation Committee representing the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Abstract

"The many components of the standard set for accreditation by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges rest upon two fundamental elements: the clear articulation of institutional purpose appropriate to education and the adequate organization of resources necessary to meet that purpose both now and in the future. Of these, Bennington College historically has excelled in the expression of a pedagogy and style of learning which was once unique in American liberal arts education and which is still highly distinctive. Bennington is recognized throughout the nation for exactly what it aims to provide: participatory education in which the teacher-practitioner and the student collaborate in projects which both create and instruct. In its marshaling of resources to provide this sort of experience, Bennington has struggled over the past decade and more. After making notable progress at the end of the 1980s, declining student population coupled with increased need for financial aid have, since 1992, precipitated a financial crisis at the College. It was within the strictures of this crisis that the visiting team was required to make its evaluation. Our conclusions, therefore, are based upon observation of current conditions in the College and cannot reach to possible outcomes of the crisis planning now underway, the results of which would be announced in June, 1994."

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NEASC, New England Association of Schools and Colleges

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