APPLICATION OF THE SEARCH CONFERENCE METHODOLOGY TO PLANNING IN HIGHER-EDUCATION

An adaptation of a First-World planning method was successfully used t o help solve the problematic situation confronted by a Third-World hig her education institution. The Search Conference is a method which ena bles the necessary conditions for a set of individuals to engage into a comprehensive process of reflection and design over a specific socia l system or domain. While preserving its essential characteristics, th e Search Conference has been adapted to respond to a Third-World organ izational environment. The realization of a ''massive'' conference in a Mexican public university triggered a participative strategic planni ng process of long-lasting consequences. The university community desi gned a desired future for the institution which became the guiding for ce to mobilize it in the agreed-upon direction. They also learned how to plan and carry on projects participatively. Some tangible results a re the identification of students' regional demand, with the consequen t creation of four new bachelors degrees and two masters degrees; the creation of a program to support those faculty members who would be wi lling to undertake masters and doctoral studies in outside prestigious universities; the increase in enrollment as a result of combined acti ons; and the opening of two extension centers off campus to improve th e external community's involvement. In conclusion, a change of attitud e emerged from the conference, which has been instrumental for the con tinuing involvement of the internal community in the creation of a new university agreeable to all.