In "Towards a systemic theory of gifted education," A. Ziegler and S.N. Phillipson have proposed a systemic approach to gifted education. For this approach, they built a model that they call an "actiotope" model. As they explained in the article, an actiotope consists of the acting individual and the environment with which he or she interacts. The…

Without a doubt the authors' proposal of viewing gifted education in systemic terms is a promising one. In fact, it is most refreshing to read something eclectic like this with an aim to synthesize a field of research and practice which for too long has lacked consensus in both practice and theory. The author agrees with them that a mechanistic…

A massive shift in perceptions of reality is underway, with thinkers in many disciplines beginning to move away from the traditional reductionist, mechanical world view to an ecological, holistic systems paradigm. Social implications are discussed. (AM)

It is ironic that we have coined a phrase "wilderness" to describe a natural state devoid of people, but we have no word to describe a natural state that includes people. A new word, "natominess", is offered that incorporates the notion of balance between humans and nature on a global scale. (TD)

An often-quoted Nigerian proverb holds that it is the responsibility of the whole village to teach a child. This paper argues that this goal might not even be possible, given the complex educational system of the 1990s. The paper provides a framework for effective change based on an understanding of the complexity of the educational system. It…

Critiques Dobbert et al's holistic systems analysis approach to cultural transmission, as presented in this journal. Argues that there is no substitute for the ethnographic narrative as the cornerstone of cross-cultural comparison and that the model is mainly useful as a mnemonic for other scientists trying to generate comprehensive models. (RDN)

Proposes that a new systemic, organic world view is needed to guide future thought and action for the environment. States that an understanding of history is critical in the development of an integrative environmental ethic. Also offers a philosophical framework that recognizes the integrity of human communities and natural systems. (ML)

Media historians have been criticized for their inability to ask substantive questions, for ignoring underlying conditions in media's past, and for their failure to relate the narration of technological developments to existing social and cultural tensions. One problem media historians confront is the scope of their research--many media histories…

Dobbert et al defend their model of cultural transmission. In answering eight commentaries, focus is on (1) their holistic perspective on learning; (2) their desire to occupy a middle ground between ethnographic detail and generalized law; and (3) their attempt to place their holistic thesis within the ethnographic tradition. (RDN)

Criticizes systems theory for providing an inappropriate model of the family. Proposes that the family should be conceived of as a matrix of interlocking experiences. (RJC)

Confusion in educational planning stems from having no clear objectives and no clear knowledge of the real clients. The new educational model involves contributing to socially useful results, not simply teaching subjects and conveying content information. Instead of relying on self-defeating techniques and mind-sets, educators can benefit from…

Analogies drawn from a whitewater kayaking trip illustrate principles of enactive theory, which holds that mind, body, and world are interconnected. Learning, action, and place influence, and are influenced by, each other. Experience emerges collectively through the interrelationships of body, environment, social history, and perception as a…

This paper suggests that present-day curriculum, based on Newtonian thought, has been rendered obsolete by the holistic and interactive "post-modern" world view based on quantum physics, nonlinear mathematics, general systems theory, and Ilya Prigogine's nonequilibrium thermodynamics. The Newtonian world view, which is linear and…

The School Development Program includes a School Planning and Management Team, a Mental Health Team, and Parents Program. The mental health component involves collaboration of child development and mental health experts and the community in dealing with individual student and global school issues in mental health. (SK)

Designing environmentally friendly challenge courses involves considering factors such as clearing, trees versus poles, soil erosion and compaction, toilet design, waste disposal, and carrying capacity. Strategies used in "green development" such as systems thinking, solution multipliers, and brainstorming with stakeholders could promote…