Developed a multivariate, causal model of the influences of childbearing and early child rearing, to investigate the impact of teenage mothers upon their children. Data analysis indicated socioeconomic status was the strongest influence upon each variable. Found the influence of maternal age in the opposite direction to socioeconomic status.…

Describes a new method designed to identify defects in existing instructional programs so that ineffective parts may be repaired, and poor programs may be replaced with better ones. Four references are listed. (MER)

A guide for organizational development specialists, this model for productivity improvement proceeds through six stages: awareness of needs, entry of specialist, data collection, problem identification, action planning, and implementation of solutions. Examples of specific activities for each stage are provided. (SK)

This document describes the construction/simulation software called Stella which can be used in the investigation of dynamic causal models. Topics considered are its built-in perspective of system dynamics and capabilities, its potential drawbacks, and its cognitive implications for educational applications. (JJK)

This paper presents concepts and principles pertinent to the development of cross-level and multilevel theory in organizational science by addressing a number of fundamental theoretical issues. It describes hierarchy theory, systems theory, and mixed-level models of organization developed by organizational scientists. Hierarchy theory derives from…

The proper framework for studying different methods of problem-solving is to recognize that there are different approaches to the analysis of reality. Three approaches--science, systems analysis, and futurism--are considered within the framework of the "theory of knowledge." (Author/IRT)

Previous work assessing the effectiveness of computers in education has gone no further than acknowledging a network of interconnected variables (comprising a system) which contribute to computer impact and describing its component parts. An impact systems model developed by Glasman and Bibiaminov (1981) has been adapted to facilitate measurement…

Logical analysis of the purpose of teaching--to bring about appropriate changes in learners--should result in identification of the elements of teaching behavior which effects appropriate changes. These elements are the logical objectives for a program of teacher education and the criteria for assessing teacher effectiveness. By successively…

This discussion describes an evaluation model designed to complement a curriculum development project, the primary goal of which is to structure a performance based program for preservice teachers. Data collected from the implementation of this four-phase model can be used to make decisions for developing and changing performance objectives and…

In an attempt to import some concepts from general systems theory to the theory of librarianship, basic elements in the theory of librarianship were identified, interrelated in a form of a static model, and projected into a possible, dynamic pattern of change. (Author/LS)

A comprehensive engineering approach to the analysis of libraries as information service systems is described in which operations research type models are developed and tested for optimizing the design and management of document storage and retrieval processes. Extension of this approach to the development of more comprehensive system models is…

Utilization of the systems approach to design of teacher education programs should result in greater program effectiveness through provision of frequent opportunity to practice application of knowledge in realistic situations. Development of an instructional system might include (1) development of a human factors systems analysis model, (2)…

This document presents a pilot training program which developed, diffused, and evaluated the application of a selected group of research and development (R&D) techniques for planning and initiating change in the public schools. The training model resulted from suggestions of an interdisciplinary development team at the University of Kansas. The…

This paper briefly explains the model used by the Eastern Regional Institute for Education in the selection and augmentation of process-promoting curricula. A schematic representation of the model provides a general view of the procedures involved and their sequence within the model. The model is then analyzed by examining each particular stage…

A model of the educational system in a typical public school was constructed within the theoretical framework of a general systems theory. The model is quantified and computerized so as to provide high speed simulation. Using the model developed, one can then simulate solutions to educational problems in seconds and at modest cost. The theory…