Since it was first published in 1982 The American Community College has become the primary resource that faculty, administrators, trustees, and researchers look to for a comprehensive analysis of the most recent findings and up-to-date information on the American community college. Throughout this important book, Arthur M. Cohen and Florence B. Brawer describe how community colleges fit into the American educational system, the services they provide, and the effects they have on the community. This completely revised and updated edition contains information about recent changes in the community college landscape, including consolidation of faculty power, mandatory testing and placement of students, the greater prominence of developmental education, and the attention given to state-level directives regarding institutional functioning and funding. The authors also present the current information on a number of other topics, including student flow, instruction, student services, and curricular functions. In addition, The American Community College includes updated tables and graphs that reflect the most current data and incorporate new examples of the services that colleges provide.

The past decades have provided many challenges for community colleges, especially in defining the role and scope of community services, and integrating it into the organizational structure. While community services has been successful in the acceptance of its mission, it is imperative that practitioners resist a contented resting upon past accomplishment. Our constituents are turning to us in increasing numbers for assistance and answers, as they are confronted by their individual economic, employment, social, and survival needs. "Reexamining Community Services in the Community College: Toward Consensus and Commitment" provides us with a strong philosophical base for strengthening our role, and offers practical suggestions and information. -- From foreword.