A large number of university web portal's content and design do not meet today's students' expectations and requirements. To address students' expectations, universities spend millions on the redesign and maintenance of their web portals which students say are inadequate and lack basic services. To this end, this study explored the factors that influence students' acceptance of university web portals. It proposed an extension of Davis's (1989) Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by adding three user related external constructs in it. A total of 429 usable responses were collected from university students through a web survey. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results of the study revealed that website quality, perceived self-efficacy, and facilitating conditions were significant in explaining students' use of university web portals and therefore, indicated that the extended TAM has sufficient explanatory power to explain students' usage of university web portals. In conclusion, important theoretical and practical implications of the results are presented for both researchers and practitioners.

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Lifelong learning can be enhanced through the establishment of academic and societal community partnerships. Adults face a multitude of challenges and roles that impact their ability to succeed in a teaching and learning environment. The motivation to pursue learning experiences will also vary and needs to be accounted for when working with the individual adult education learner. Post-secondary institutions can serve to bridge education, research, training, and service to the community. This chapter discusses current practices and advances within partnerships that have been established between university and adult education providers.

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Culture is a core element in everyday living within the United States. The variety of races, traditions, languages, and religious beliefs contribute to a cultural combination that is rich and strengthens the bonds of our society. However, within school systems cultural differences, seen through the eyes of prejudice and stereotyping, can deter and hinder student achievement and teaching efforts. Incorporating cultural competencies within educator preparation and professional development programs can serve to provide equitable education and address the achievement gap with culturally diverse students. This chapter discusses current research practices and advances in cultural competence within U.S. schools and educational institutions.