This paper describes the implementation of the Holistic Systemic Evaluation (HSE), a component of an Education Systemic Initiative's strategic management. The HSE provides general guidance for the implementation and continual improvement of an Education Systemic Initiative Reform (ESIR). The implementation of the education system initiative plan:…

This document presents the lessons of Jobs for the Future's Benchmark Communities Initiative (BCI), a 5-year systemic educational reform initiative launched in 1994 in five communities. Before joining the BCI, the five Benchmark communities had each begun a school-to-career effort. Five key findings from the BCI are outlined: (1) students engaged…

Pepperdine University's decision support system provides: (1) user access to data through terminals; (2) the availability of retrieval modules and languages that allow the managers to structure ad hoc reports; (3) access to models through a national network; and (4) training, encouragement and consultation through coordinators. (Author/MLW)

Interface requirements, design, and implementation are described for the university's integrated library system. The system was designed to interface with other automated system components, and specific plans were developed for a link between circulation and acquisitions. Interface activities already operational are listed. (Author/SW)

Explains component-based development (CBD) for distributed information systems and presents an evaluation framework, which highlights the extent to which a methodology is component oriented. Compares prominent CBD methods, discusses ways of modeling, and suggests that this is a first step towards a components-oriented systems development…

Discusses collaborative virtual learning environments and presents a system architecture to support such environments, defined by user needs and using state-of-the-art technologies. Includes a description of INVITE (Intelligent Distributed Virtual Training Environment), a project funded by the European Commission. (Author/LRW)

Describes digital community information systems (CIS) and the need for improvements in system design. Proposes a layered evaluation framework to guide the evaluation of digital CIS from the perspective of information retrieval, following a selective review of digital CIS and evaluation approaches. Contains 59 references. (Author/LRW)

Gives an overview of the development of multimedia, from the combination of film and computer graphics used during the 1960s to present day jet aircraft simulators. Definitions of multimedia, virtual reality, the use of compact disks to deliver digitally recorded information, and the economic need for the technology are discussed. (KRN)

Describes interorganizational information systems and the necessity for cooperation. Topics discussed include managerial considerations, including objectives, benefits, and resources; considerations in systems development, including telecommunications skills; considerations for users of information systems, including user needs; and considerations…

Provides insights into the design of effective educational planning conversations derived from the metaphor of enthalpy (the amount of heat energy released when chemical reactions occur). Interprets enthalpy changes in the context of energy and the dynamics necessary to sustain an effective systems design conversation. (AEF)

Suggests that performance consultants are at their best for the benefit of clients when they assume the role of facilitator, not solver of clients' performance problems. Describes the four requirements involved in facilitation: Facilitators, Exemplary Performers, a Model, and Resources. Illustrates how to implement and use the four features of…

In the world of university IT, change seems like a near constant. What is left out of the process of evaluating past change and planning for future change is the need to pose questions about the culture of technology change in the university, how much change should be tolerated, and what imperatives should drive this change. A clearer…

This article describes Outcome-Oriented Operations (Tri-O[superscript 3]), a system developed at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, which enables an office to identify and achieve specific, measurable outcomes. Tri-O[superscript 3] was implemented in the University's Office of Undergraduate Admissions with significant success. (Contains 3…

A rapidly changing global economy, shifting demographics, and concerns about our ability to maintain a competitive workforce have focused national attention on the educational systems of America's states, highlighting their critical role in ensuring a productive and creative future for our country. As a result, Americas colleges and universities…

In this paper we seek to reflect critically on the process of establishing a Caribbean Network for the reorientation of teacher education to address sustainability. We begin by addressing the origin and purpose/value of the network. As a sub-network of the UNITWIN/UNESCO International Network for the Reorientation of Teacher Education to Address…