A Study of the Functions and Powers of Summer Session Directors in Selected Institutions of Higher Education in the United States

Abstract

The purpose was (1) to determine the functions mid powers of summer session directors; (2) to compare those functions and powers actually assumed with the Judgment of an eminent "jury" of ten authorities In summer session administration as to what degree they should he performed.

A Survey Questionnaire, relating to (1) college administration; (2) curriculum; (3) instructional faculty; (4) students; and (5) general administration, was prepared and mailed to all four-year accredited Institutions of higher education with enrollments exceeding 1500 students. Institutions were categorized according to (1) small; (2) Intermediate; and (3) large size. Also categorized according to accrediting regions of the II.S. and whether they were "public" or "private" schools. Comparisons were made as to the functions and powers assumed (performed) by the different size institutions with the judgment of the "jury."

Thirty-seven percent of the directors reported being directly responsible to the "president" of the institution. (The jury felt they should be.) Twenty-nine percent reported that they "always" had the power to determine summer session faculty salaries. (The jury felt they should not.) Twenty-eight percent reported that they were "always" responsible for attendance and discipline. (The jury felt they should not be.) Forty-two percent reported that they were "always" responsible for registration procedures. (The Jury felt they should not be.) Only four percent reported spending 00-100 percent of their time in summer session administration during the regular-year. The most common title wag "director".

The directors were responsible to either the "president" or "vice-president." Most of them had "autonomy" in budgetary expenditures. Most of the directors submitted an "Annual Report." Most of the directors had the power to appoint "visiting faculty." Many of the directors took the leadership in suggesting student class load, fees, et cetera. Most of the summer session programs were "self-supporting" financially. Directors should spend more time on summer session administration during regular-year.