Academic due process and substantive due process in higher education administrations censured by the American Association of University Professors during 1980-1983

This study examined the twelve publicly reported cases in which the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) censured higher education administrations during 1980-1983. The study analyzed compliance of administrations, governing boards, and courts with AAUP principles regarding academic freedom and tenure. This study also investigated reactions of these administrations and boards to AAUP recommendations concerning academic freedom and tenure.;Study research was conducted at AAUP headquarters in Washington, D.C. This research involved determining the number, positions, and levels of involvement of university officials in cases concerning academic freedom and tenure. The research also examined procedures used to censure administrations for violations.;Although various faculty handbooks state that tenured faculty members can expect employment for as long as funding exists (barring dismissal for cause), the study found that shifts in student enrollment or institution priorities can jeopardize tenured faculty jobs. The study also noted that courts have decided that nontenured faculty who waive their rights to tenure waived their rights of entitlement to a hearing. Several professors found that their classrooms were subject to administrative intrusions. The courts have decided that administrations may object to and correct faculty actions and teaching techniques deemed inappropriate.;The study concluded that during 1980-1983, administrations hired and fired faculty members at will, as merely contractual employees.