These seven monographs survey the issues and problems of (1) sensitivity training, (2) differentiated staffing, (3) planning-programing-budgeting systems, (4) systems analysis, (5) the delphi technique, (6) performance contracting, and (7) educational vouchers. The papers are designed to be used as a matrix for reference and planning by interested…

As one of a series of reports in progress, this report is introduced with a discussion of the concepts underlying long-range planning of any kind, and the methods of research used to describe alternative patterns of evolution or change within various policy fields. The FAR method, which emerged out of the Contingent U.S. Patterns (CUSPs) analysis…

This study examines the relationship between organizational structure and elements of three social system processes: (1) input and output boundary exchanges, (2) system production, and (3) use of facilities. The specific system processes are enrollment planning and student placement, curriculum continuity, and use of physical and social…

A computerized model was developed to evaluate local vocational education programs in relation to the various functions of vocational education. A data base was generated using the local school districts' information and the output was designed for local self-evaluation use in further planning and review of the overall vocational education plan.…

A more unified approach to communication theory can evolve through systems modeling of information theory, communication modes, and mass media operations. Such systematic analysis proposes, as is the case care here, that information models be based upon combinations of energy changes and exchanges and changes in receiver systems. The mass media is…

This publication presents in summary form the development of the two end products of the Trenton Title III project: (1) an educational planning system called STEP (System for Tranton's Educational Planning) and (2) a new planning office, the Division of Research, Planning, and Evaluation. Included is the outline of the planning cycle, a discussion…

Educators often fail to implement improved teaching systems because they lack a method of choosing among instructional alternatives. The Rand Coporation is developing for the Air Force a means--called Method of Designing Instructional Alternatives (MODIA)--whereby instructors can select a preferred instructional system. Using MODIA, one begins by…

This analysis of current and available information on the evaluation of vocational education and its policy implications includes a methodological appendix showing major studies of cost-effectiveness analysis, a critique of the various techniques employed in these studies, and an extensive bibliography of relevant source materials and related…

This booklet contains the material used at a planning session of the Citizens Advisory Committee of the superintendent of schools held in conjunction with the district's Title III project entitled, "Building a Comprehensive Planning System Model with EPPBS." The purpose of the material is to provide the educational decisionmakers with…

The suggested readings in this occasionally annotated bibliography concerning deliberate socialchange in the city are listed under five subject areas. These subject areas are as follows: I. The Scope of "Social Change"; II. Toward a Theory of Social Change; III. A. The Rational Problem Solving Process, B. Behavioral Approaches to Social Change;…

Describes two interactive computer programs that simulate abstract relationships and require students to use inductive reasoning, form and test hypotheses, and analyze functions of systems and the reasoning processes required to understand them. Their development and use in college philosophy of science courses is outlined, and possible future…

Describes British Library's work on Systems Dynamics, a set of techniques for building simulation models based on analysis of information feedback loops. Highlights include macro-simulation modelling activities of social science disciplines, systems analyses and models of information retrieval processes and library services, policy models, and…

Discusses the design and development of the user-computer interface in terms of the personal computer user's psychological needs and physical, perceptual, and conceptual contact with the system. Principles for the development of a user-system dialog that meets the requirements of transparency and visibility are suggested. Twenty-six references are…

Colleges, like corporations, spend millions each year on information technology products and services to support academic programs and administrative services. A good deal of these dollars were not part of institutional budgets not long ago. In this context, textbook economics suggest that colleges and universities should be "more productive"…

The essays in this collection represent the many ways in which the academic world is in flux. The collection suggests guidance for organizations and individual faculty, looks at decision-making structures, offers advice about empowering a faculty, and addresses the responsibilities of the academic in the current educational climate. The essays,…