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
Date
1994-04
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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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Keywords
NEASC, New England Association of Schools and Colleges