Over the last several hundred years, local and national educational systems have evolved from relatively simple systems to incredibly complex, interdependent, policy-laden structures, to which many question their value, effectiveness, and direction they are headed. System Dynamics is a field of analysis used to guide policy and system design in…

This study introduces the concept of Fault Tree Analysis as a systems tool and examines the implications of Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) as a technique for isolating failure modes in educational systems. A definition of FTA and discussion of its history, as it relates to education, are provided. The step by step process for implementation and use of…

The point is made that systems thinking should be combined with dialectical thinking and constructivist thinking for effective systems design and systems change. To establish a context, a set of assertions on "How the World Works" in regard to systems design and systems change in education is laid out, as value assumptions undergirding…

In a study conducted in two large school districts, 279 educational administrators expressed a strong desire for training in the major areas of educational leadership that were assessed: (1) the principalship; (2) problem solving; (3) planning for school growth; (4) personal awareness; (5) staff development; (6) long-range planning; and (7) the…

An outcomes orientation is examined as the dominant focus for formulating improvements in a college's planning, management, and evaluation (PME) system. Outcomes are seen as individual (produced by college personnel or students), program related, or institutional. An outcomes orientation to PME has the advantages of relating to the quality of…

This report discusses the results of a five-year effort to develop a comprehensive planning process that would enable school districts to initiate and maintain a self-sustaining planning capability. In addition to examining the general principles and procedures of the comprehensive planning approach to school district planning, the author…

Discussion of instructional systems design and development projects focuses on improving project planning and analysis to avoid failures. Case studies of failures of educational technology projects, including projects in developing nations and distance education projects, are presented; project engineering is discussed; and a model for successful…

The four projects in management analysis described in this report are interrelated parts of a planning and development scheme in selected areas of the Chicago public school system. One project, the long-range system-wide planning process, is the means whereby the school system determines its multi-year priorities. A recommended strategy for…

In a study designed to identify information needs of persons who make management decisions about public school vocational education programs in Texas and who develop ways to meet these needs through use of a management information system, particular emphasis was given to the information needs of management within the Texas Education Agency…

A review of strategic planning needs of the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education (DTAE) identified current understandings and expectations regarding strategic planning around the state as seen by key staff and other constituents. Bases of the review were the four components of the DTAE's Strategic Development System: levels of…

A system of statewide educational information networks is proposed and plans for the implementation of such a network are presented. The need for a coordinated, well-administered system to disseminate information about educational opportunities is discussed with specific reference to the importance of reaching older learners, minority groups,…