Presents a conceptual framework for the development of decision support systems which outlines abstractions involved in the decision-making process and describes various functions and components of the system. The computer architecture is described and an example of an application is provided. (31 references) (Author/CLB)

Provides historical perspectives on preservation of records and highlights needs in library preservation, including a systems or engineering approach to conservation problem solving. Current educational efforts of Library of Congress and United States library schools such as School of Library Service at Columbia University are outlined. Two…

The greater organizational complexity of libraries and information centers in recent years has given rise to more complex problems for managers. To facilitate solutions, operations research (OR) techniques have been developed that consider the quantitative dimensions of problems along with their political and organizational aspects. Eight standard…

This report summarizes the preliminary findings of the Educational Policy Research Center in the area of alternative future histories and analyzes the implications for educational policy. The analysis is based on the overall finding of the study that "of some 40 feasible future histories, there are very few that manage to avoid a period of serious…

The use of computer simulation model, C.A.M.P.U.S., as a tool of systems analysis for effective educational management and planning is described. The components of the C.A.M.P.U.S. model are discussed as they relate to planning, programming, and budgeting. Problems that can be analyzed using C.A.M.P.U.S. are considered, and the implementation of…

In contrast to science and technology, public policymaking systems lack knowledge about the design and operation of overall social control. Policy sciences contribute to the understanding and improvement of large-scale control systems, especially in their attempt to give rationality to policymaking and decisionmaking activities. The most important…

Whether they want to prevent upheaval by student revolt or, more importantly, increase the development of mature and responsible students, personnel workers must evaluate and quantify what they are trying to do, what means they are using, and what progress they are making. Operations analysis is an excellent technique for this. (Author)

Provides a summary of a series of research and development projects which investigated the reasons for failure in educational technology-based systems of instruction. Develops a new approach to the design of such systems and their subsequent implementation and control. A 17-item bibliography is included. (Author/CHC)

In order to evaluate the effectiveness of problem-solving groups, a study developed a model of group problem-solving behavior, and applied the resulting conceptual framework to 16 actual evaluations of quality circle programs (defined as a group of 3-15 persons from the same work area who meet for problem-solving). The model divides each of the…

The size, cost, and complexity of quantitative modeling in the social and physical sciences demand that modelers focus attention on premodeling phases of analysis, specifically on formulation and definition of problems. This is especially true in the areas of futures research and technology assessment. At the problem-defining stage of modeling, a…

This paper is an account of the theoretical and practical underpinnings of the Decision-Proposal Modification Coding System (DPM), which allows researchers to study more accurately the many aspects of group decision making in organizations. Following an introduction that reviews and supports arguments for process-oriented research on decision…

A system approach is a process for effectively and efficiently achieving a required outcome based on documented needs. Three major types of system approaches have emerged from a variety of problem-solving techniques. The design-process mode builds a system to meet determined and substantiated needs. The solution-implementation mode uses various…

Elements of systems theory are discussed, including reasons for their appeal to social workers and dangers of uncritical application. Emphasized are the issue of analogies in theory building and systems theory implications for dealing with macrosocial phenomena, social change, and power. (Author/LBH)

The process of change and development of the mathematics curriculum in the United States is reviewed. Fundamental changes of implemented curricula from 1960-1980 are discussed in the light of the considerable efforts at reform during the 1950's and 1960's. Elements of the educational system are mapped out, and reasons for the lack of effective…

THIS PAPER INVESTIGATES VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE SYSTEMS APPROACH FOR SOLVING EDUCATIONAL PROBLEMS--(1) THE SYSTEMS CONCEPT, (2) THE RELIABILITY OF THE ASSUMPTIONS ON WHICH THE SYSTEMS APPROACH IS BASED, (3) THE LIMITATIONS INHERENT IN THE SYSTEMS APPROACH, (4) THE HUMAN ELEMENT AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SYSTEMS APPROACH, (5) THE WAYS THE…