Twelve papers are contained in this report. Robert M. Ranftl reports on the findings of a study to identify useful techniques for optimizing productivity. John S. Packard contrasts the spirit of inquiry and the norm of productivity, and makes recommendations for the composition of a research team. David L. Williams describes procedures to ensure…

While concern for efficiency and productivity and the use of systems terminology are not new, the intensity with which the jargon is used is relatively new. Unfortunately, the technological terms have frequently become distorted and value-laden through attempts to apply them to compelling economic and political issues. As a result, administrative…

Planning and management is now and will continue to be a way of life for the academy. The shape of education in the years to come will be determined by the ability to accommodate management systems and mold them to a desired form. As the academic profession embraces planning systems and learns to live with a dismal financial future, leadership…

Contains history, case studies, and discussion of the use and benefits of flex-time employment, a pattern of working hours in which individual employees begin and end their work day at times of their choice, within certain limits, as long as they work a prescribed number of hours. The paper addresses the following topics: (1) What is flex-time,…

Designing a training course to be more efficient will simultaneously reduce the amount of trainee time as well as increase its impact on job performance. (Available from American Management Associations, Subscription Services, Box 319, Saranac Lake, NY 12983; $3.25 single copy.) (MLF)

Topics include: (1) global objectives for structuring and improving the educational climate, (2) a history of competency-based education, (3) objectives based instructional programs, (4) behavior modification, (5) physical education objectives, (5) objectives in the cognitive domain. (DAG)

Examines ways contemporary design and use of schools can positively affect future energy availability. (Author/MLF)

A discussion of the use of performance indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of higher education institutions argues that they cannot be used without clear institutional goals. Problems of deriving institutional goal systems, methodological problems associated with such indicators, and related research are addressed. (MSE)

Seven reasons for reading pedagogical materials to improve instruction are outlined, advice on how the reading can be used most effectively is given, and appropriate readings are recommended. (MSE)

The use of computer-simulated case problems to improve skills in patient interviewing and symptom analysis was found to help teach symptom characterization but not to substitute for faculty teaching. Student team study on case simulations is recommended. (MSE)

Examines the concrete problems, issues, and paradoxes encountered while establishing and implementing a teacher preparation program based on critical reflection. Contrasts the standardized, controlled atmosphere of most classrooms with a transformative vision of teaching as an artistic, political, and human act. Cites 13 references. (MLH)

Examines recent major proposals for improvements in elementary and secondary education from an economic perspective and assesses their likely effects. Suggests that efficient, effective, and equitable use of resources has not been fully considered in the preparation of the proposals. (PGD)

Observation of a sample of 24 Chicago (Illinois) principals for a period of 11 working days each, spread over the course of 1 to 2 school years, revealed evidence of an organizational loyalty/identification system and a training-oriented relationship between the principal and the district superintendent. (MLF)

A review of the efforts of the Community College Productivity Center concerning efficiency of operations in community colleges focuses on examples of campus projects to increase efficiency in the areas of reducing energy consumption, improving staff utilization, and reducing student attrition. (MSE)

The objectives of the Soviet system of higher education and the expansion of the role of higher education are described, emphasizing the development of labor and industry for increased productivity, creativity, and specialization. A trend toward regular continuing education to keep pace with technological advancement is also noted. (MSE)