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Description
This study contained a survey of current methods used for planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and program evaluation in the California community colleges, and it included an in-depth analysis of planning practices in the San Diego and Imperial Valley region. Statewide results indicate a significant difference between current practice and perceived importance of the application of college planning processes, utilization of institutional priorities, methods of financial resource allocation, budgeting, and integration of planning and budgeting with program review. Integration and simplification of planning processes has unfortunately only happened in California in response to mandates and urgency created by external accrediting agencies. Recent funding shortfalls have emphasized the need to implement more efficient planning and budgeting methods. Colleges indicate that zero-base and performance funding may play a role in future budget models. The majority of San Diego and Imperial Counties community colleges are still developing and implementing integrated planning processes that utilize outcome assessment, too recently to have demonstrated increased institutional effectiveness. Results also show that colleges have integrated planning, budgeting, and program review processes in response to their accreditation cycles. The reluctance of shared governance groups to embrace outcome measurement has slowed the implementation of integrated planning and continuous quality improvement measures within California community colleges. Useful integrated planning models exist within California, with institutions adopting best practices that meet specific needs, based upon college and district size. California community colleges in the twenty-first century serve an increasing number and diversity of students with fewer state financial resources. Limitations in both state and federal funding for these institutions require new models of planning and resource allocation. The diverse mission of community colleges has become more difficult to support as funding has become scarce. Identification and implementation of effective planning models may assist colleges to maintain high quality educational programs in this challenging financial environment. Efficient planning and budgeting methods described in this study will be essential to maintain open access and financial equity for students served by the California Community Colleges.
