Systems theory functions in enabling the researcher to study and analyze the intermediate-level political system represented by the Cooperative Extension Service interactions at the federal level. (Author)

Presents an analysis and critique of Thomas Greenfield's views on organizational theory and related matters. (IRT)

Proposes a management-oriented model for describing and studying information behavior and details the testing of the resulting hypotheses through the use of a database describing the information-related attitudes and behaviors of 560 scientists and engineers. (FM)

Seeks to provide a common theoretical foundation for all known bibliometric laws by assimilating a systemic view of the information transfer process with a thermodynamic process, i.e., the conduction of heat in solids. The resulting diffusion model establishes new definitions for informational energy and entropy consistent with corresponding…

The systems approach to instruction is studied through an analysis of the use of this approach by the U.S. Air Force's Air Training Command. An explanation of the USAF Instructional Systems Development (ISD) model is given. (RAO)

Gives an overview of systems-based theories and their application in education. Suggests that teachers and administrators recognize that change is inherent in all systems, effecting further change. Recommends holistic planning that accounts for interactions among all system components. (Contains 19 references.) (SK)

Outlines the recent criticisms of traditional ISD (Instructional Systems Design) and discusses the implications that impact the life cycle costs of T&D (Training and Development) projects and their ROI (Return On Investment) potential. Describes a modified approach to ISD which mimics the modular approach of systems engineering design.…

Evaluated ability of self-regulation and emotional-drive theories to explain effects of informational intervention entailing objective descriptions of experience on outcomes of coping with radiation therapy among 84 men with prostate cancer. Consistent with self-regulation theory, similarity between expectations and experience and degree of…

The concept of ecosystem signifies the study of living species and their physical environment as an integrated whole. Traces the historical development of the concept in Great Britain and America. (Contains 38 references.) (MDH)

Discusses the inherent complexities of ecosystems. Included in the discussion are the topics of space and time; thermodynamics and open systems; middle number systems and observer dependence; information needs; and the ecosystem approach and integrity. (Contains 26 references.) (MDH)

Interdisciplinary teams are loosely coupled (systems in which elements are weakly, infrequently, or informally linked). Applying loosely coupled systems theory to team training increases its effectiveness, because learning activities may be disjointed and learning goals may diverge. (SK)

Uses examples of organizational distortions of information to expand understanding of individual moral responses and responsibilities in light of Hannah Arendt's notion of the banality of evil. Explores dimensions of the objective/subjective and systemic/reductionist continua. (SK)

A dynamic systems model is proposed on the basis of a general developmental mechanism adopted from the theories of J. Piaget and L. S. Vygotsky. In the model, action and experience have a distributed effect on the contents (skills, knowledge, rules, action patterns, etc.) along an abstract developmental distance dimension. (Author/SLD)

Learning network theory applies a network approach to learning systems. It provides a framework for analyzing tensions between the dual orientation of learning systems: development of human potential versus development of the work process (work relevance). (SK)

In this article, human ecology is defined; its historical and intellectual roots are traced through various disciplines to its applications in public health and health promotion today; its strengths and limitations are described; some potential contributions to systems theory are suggested; and some emerging ecological models of health promotion…