Current research and theory largely ignore the role of learning and feedback in the decision-making process. A theory of action based on single-loop learning is the most general current model of action. A double-loop model that provides feedback and more effective decision-making is proposed. (Author/IRT)

Administrative experimentation includes a class of heuristics for obtaining feedback on management decisions in what amounts to a continuous trial and error process. Available from Management Science, Institute of Management Sciences, Circulation Dept., 345 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, Connecticut 06511; single copy $4.50. (Author/IRT)

Presented for the special educator are some concepts and procedures used in systems analysis, a relatively new study area used in many fields to structure knowledge, to analyze problems, and to suggest and test solutions. (MC)

This report describes the results of three studies which investigated the use of PLATO to teach problem solving. Subjects were 244 children from kindergarten through third grade. The first study explored the extent to which kindergartners and second graders used the knowledge about which answers were right and which were wrong to develop the…

The advantages of the Delphi Technique are that it relies on collective expert judgment, prevents the excessive influence in decision-making of those in positions of status, and encourages consensus. The technique consists of five steps: (1) asking experts to list items relevant to a topic; (2) returning the list to the participants and asking…

Describes a programming environment called Tinker, in which a beginning programmer presents examples to the machine, distinguishing accidental and essential aspects of the examples. Examples of programming in Tinker are presented in which programmers demonstrate how to handle specific examples and the machine formulates a procedure for handling…

Researchers have suggested two models of risk preference to account for subjects' preference for tasks of moderate difficulty. The affective model proposes that pride of success and shame of failure are responsible for the observed preference. The cognitive model suggests preference for tasks of moderate difficulty because they are the most…

The terminology associated with instructional accountability, instructional relevance, and benefits to society were considered in determining a more efficient and effective instructional program. (Author/RK)

Since the major activity of the school is the development of students into productive adults, decisions in school management should enhance the processes that facilitate development of the child. Rational decisionmaking in school management necessitates coordination between school boards and school administrators. Boards of education must…

The study focuses on the survey Feedback--Problem Solving--Collective Decision intervention, a structural/task-oriented approach to planned organizational change. The objective of this research program is to further refine an organizational development approach which provides schools with a structure consistent with the environment of educational…

Presents the results of a study which sought to determine if prior learning of basic problem-solving steps, the practicing of problem-solving skills, and the receiving of feedback during play were important variables in the use of role-playing activities to teach high school students a specific problem-solving model. (Author/JL)

Noise in the form of random errors arising from choices is a common problem. Examined three different approaches for coping with noise. Found that reciprocity works, provided it is accompanied by generosity or contrition. Changing one's choice after a poor outcome was not seen as helpful. Other points are discussed. (RJM)

This paper describing a newly created instructional approach developed at Oregon State University focuses on discussions of the process, a guided design decision-making strategy used by a team of instructors to design and develop the product, i.e., the feedback lecture approach, which is examined both in its developmental stage and in its measured…

This report describes an amendment to a simulation program for the training of practicing and prospective educational administrators. The amendment was designed to operationalize and test game theory formats that provide students with feedback on decisions made in the gamed simulations. Game theory instruments used in the amendment are described…

This guide presents suggestions to committee chairpersons for making meetings more effective. The three broad sections of this guide address: (1) preparation of the agenda and physical arrangements for the meeting; (2) management of meetings to avoid negative outcomes; and (3) methods to overcome blocks in conflict resolution and decision making.…