Canadian college scene

Community colleges are distinctive types of institutions and should not be looked upon as an extension of the high school nor as the lower years of a university. They are institutions in their own right with a special sensitivity to local needs. Local autonomy is critical to the development of the community colleges. A special emphasis is placed on practical experience in employing faculty members. The emphasis in these colleges is on teaching, not on research. Technical‐vocational programmes are recommended, supported and evaluated, by Advisory Committees of knowledgeable and highly interested laymen. University transfer courses are offered after close consultation with the universities. Adult Education (Extension) is a major emphasis of community colleges, with colleges operating at all hours of the day and week in order to meet local needs and interests. The community colleges stress the open door policy whereby mature students are given opportunities to prove themselves, although lacking formal educational requirements. The enrolment of part‐time students is increasing dramatically. Community colleges function in and out of warehouses, store fronts, playgrounds, old military, bases, etc. Community colleges have not provided educational programmes to any great extent via correspondence courses; however, the television medium is gaining in popularity. Community colleges are generally commuter colleges. Most colleges do not have student residences. Community colleges are more flexible and imaginative, less obstructed by, or interested in, traditional ways of doing things. Community colleges are faced with a shortage of funds as they attempt to meet their objectives.