The term "problem-solving" covers three steps of the comprehensive planning process: problem analysis, generation of alternative solutions, and selection of policies or programs from those solutions. After goals have been developed and needs assessed, the problem-solving process begins with identification and definition of the specific nature of…

Explains the concept of environmental auditing as analogous to financial auditing, as manifested through the six guiding principles of environmental excellence, and as utilized by industrial and commercial interests. Presents a questionnaire-based method to introduce students to the techniques involved in environmental auditing. (seven references)…

This book explores conflict resolution strategies and presents a systematic approach to mediation for peer helpers. The first part examines conflict resolution. Internal and external sources of conflict are considered. Irritations, inappropriate expectations, and unknown sources of external conflict are examined. A section on looking inside…

The purpose of this learning module developed at the University of Houston is to aid the prospective teacher in defining problems so that decision making can be handled in a flexible manner. The student is presented with five situations and asked to define the problem from the point of view of the student, the teacher, and the parent. The module…

This model for solving educational problems consists of four major steps: (1) the problem is defined and verified; (2) solution criteria are established; (3) solution alternatives are surveyed; and (4) a solution is selected. "Problem" is defined as the discrepancy between an existing condition and a desired condition. This model is to be…

This manual describes Version 4 of Soar, an architecture for problem solving and learning based on heuristic search and chunking. Version 4 is available as of January 1986 in Common Lisp, Franz-Lisp, Interlisp, and Zeta-Lisp. An introduction to the Soar system is presented, and information is provided about the following system aspects: (1) data…

This listing of "what students should know and be able to do to learn effectively and live productively in an increasingly digital world" includes guidelines for six subject areas: (1) Creativity and Innovation; (2) Communication and Collaboration; (3) Research and Information Fluency; (4) Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving & Decision-Making; (5)…

This skill laboratory provides a technique for problem definition and alternative methods to gather pertinent data that surrounds a given situation. Seven skills are discussed including Kaufman's tri-level needs assessment model, intergroup building, organizational slice, force field analysis, brainstorming, problem definition, and conflict…

This publication is intended to aid practicing educators in reviewing and utilizing current principles of problem-solving and decision-making. The booklet is organized in five short sections that briefly discuss different aspects of organizational problem-solving and outline suggested steps to guide educators in applying problem-solving techniques…

Realizing the importance of counseling girls in self-concept, realistic goals, values, priorities, and decision-making in a changing world this packet was developed by the Commission on the Status of Women. Included in the packet are: When I Grow Up I'm Going to be Married--a game illustrating how time and circumstance affect women (for classroom…

The decision support system (DSS) environment, the functional requirements of a DSS, and the architectural requirements of the computer systems and communications network necessary to support a DSS are discussed. Changes in the computing environment that are necessary to implement decision support systems are suggested. (Author/MLW)

This paper outlines the decision-making processes and procedures that affect curriculum and identifies the leadership role of different school personnel and the steps involved in making decisions. The following areas of curriculum planning are discussed: (1) what is to be taught to different learners and in what order; (2) what textbooks, media,…

This booklet on environmental decisions is one of a series in environmental education for grades K-12. The activities contained in this booklet are designed to identify components of complex decision making and to develop the idea of responsibility for decisions. Six basic concepts are listed, along with the behavioral objectives, subject areas,…

This occupational skills instructional module on problem solving is one of twelve making up a curriculum guide on the human aspects of working in organizations. The modules are designed for utilization at various educational levels ranging from high school to adult and continuing education, in either academic or vocational programs. This module is…

This paper, the first in a series of five on the current state of citizen education, focuses on citizen participation in decision making. After a brief introduction to citizen participation, the authors discuss the involvement of citizens in decision making viewed as a problem-solving process. The five problem-solving steps covered are: define the…