ERIC Number: ED030430
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1966
Pages: 155
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Quantitative Methods for Administrative Decision Making in Junior Colleges.
Gold, Benjamin Knox
With the rapid increase in number and size of junior colleges, administrators must take advantage of the decision-making tools already used in business and industry. This study investigated how these quantitative techniques could be applied to junior college problems. A survey of 195 California junior college administrators found that the problems for which technical help would be most welcome were (1) projecting enrollment, plant, and staff needs, (2) scheduling use of staff and facilities, (3) registration and enrollment, (4) organization, communications, and personnel relations, (5) selection of staff, (6) particular phases of curriculum, counseling, instruction, finance, admissions, and student activities. Specific techniques considered here were linear and dynamic programming, queueing and game theory, Monte Carlo and computer simulation, symbolic logic, matrix algebra, statistical decision theory, quality control charts and sampling plans, factor analysis, and PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique). The study showed that few administrators are aware of these techniques. Those most likely to be helpful are PERT, queueing theory, and computer simulation. Examples show the use of symbolic logic, control charts, queueing theory, and Monte Carlo simulation in specific problems. The writer recommends that (1) administrators get to know these techniques, (2) college objectives be examined in measurable terms, and (3) colleges pool their problem-solving efforts. (HH)
Descriptors: Administrators, Decision Making, Doctoral Dissertations, Game Theory, Linear Programing, Management Games, Mathematical Models, Problem Solving, Programing, Simulation, Two Year Colleges
University Microfilms, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106 (Order No. 67-551, Microfilm $3.00, Xerography $7.80)
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Identifiers - Location: California
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