This paper presents some suggestions about and evidence on how research theories from social psychology can be used to improve the operation and effects of short term educational programs whose objectives include the education or reeducation of individuals. The document is intended for people connected with the kindergarten through college educational system who are responsible for producing changes geared to improving the functioning of educational programs. The authors demonstrate that the use of temporary systems concepts in managing short term conferences, institutes, workshops, and meetings of from three days to eight weeks' duration can significantly improve the effectiveness of these events. The document differentiates between temporary and permanent systems, presents a conceptual model of a temporary system, explains terminology, cites relevant literature, and gives specific examples taken from different programs to illustrate how systems concepts can be applied. The paper concludes with a checklist that summarizes the kinds of actions that might be made by a manager or a director of a temporary system. (Author/DN)