The systems approach in education is a management tool that allows individuals to examine all aspects of a problem, to interrelate the effects of one set of decisions to another, and to optimally use the resources at hand to solve the problem. Five systems approaches which have been used in the successful development of instruction at the…

Describes Fault Tree Analysis, a tool for systems analysis which attempts to identify possible modes of failure in systems to increase the probability of success. The article defines the technique and presents the steps of FTA construction, focusing on its application to education. (RAO)

John Goodlad (1958) stated that "Nowhere in education is there greater need for a conceptual system to guide decision-making than the field of curriculum." This research attempts to explore ways in which systems thinking can provide a conceptual system, to illuminate the study of curriculum and guide the design of curricula. (Author/RK)

The benefits of prototyping as a basis for system design include better specifications, earlier discovery of omissions and extensions, and the likelihood of salvaging much of the effort expended on the prototype. Risks and methods of prototyping during rapid systems development are also noted. (Author/MLW)

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…

Presents a formal approach to information systems development and outlines the components of a structured systems development methodology. The various stages of the methodology are then reviewed in light of experiences gained in three consultancy projects in developing countries. (Author/CLB)

This paper introduces a hardware and software independent model for producing educational computer simulation environments. The model, which is based on the results of 32 studies of educational computer simulations program production, implies that educational computer simulation environments are specified, constructed, tested, implemented, and…

Describes a methodology for management information systems design that employs a formalized framework for significantly involving manager-users in the design process. A key element of the methodology is the development of descriptive and normative system models based on the concept of a "linear responsibility chart." (Author/JG)

Article based on an unpublished doctoral dissertation completed at the University of California at Berkeley, 1966.

This paper identifies key variables in both the design and implementation of educational planning models and presents a conceptual framework that meaningfully relates these variables. Purpose of the conceptual framework is to provide educational researchers and practitioners with a "cognitive map" of significant variables associated with…

It is recognized that there is a major gap between the promises of large data bases and optimization and simulation models and their actual ability to solve real world problems. This document describes a Generalized Data Base Planning System (GPLAN), currently being developed at Purdue University, that is proposed as a system to bridge this gap. A…

During the transfer from conceptualizations to practical programs of educational innovation, difficulties, in the form of failure to close modular gaps, often occur. The author has constructed a functional model of research and systems development based upon logical sequencing and tight-line modular linkage between task assignment and…

This guidebook is designed to help school leaders think systemically as they examine school improvement issues and make decisions about change. The guidance offered is based on what has been learned from systems theory, research on school improvement, and conversations with a broad array of school leaders. Because schools are complex systems of…

Presents a new model of searching in online and other information systems, and reviews the literature of manual information seeking behavior for suggestions of capabilities users might like in online systems. Based on the model--called "berrypicking"--and research, suggestions are made for how new search capabilities could be implemented…

Discusses system modeling and specification as it relates to object-based information systems development and software development. An automated system model based on the objects in the initial requirements document is described, the requirements document translator is explained, and a sample application of the technique is provided. (12…