In this dissertation I present research on the creative aspect of language use. I focus on Blind Variation and Selective Retention, a process whereby a creative system produces an outcome by first generating with no imposed constraints all variant outcomes and then retains from these variegated candidates the optimal outcome by gradually…

Reform is a reality for many school districts and schools. When faced with reform movements, districts and schools must address both the immediate implementation and the sustainability of the reform. This dissertation study is informed by two theories centered on reform implementation and sustainability: Organizational Learning Theory by…

This study explores the strategic thinking and strategic planning efforts in a department, college and university in the Southeastern United States. The goal of the study was to identify elements of strategic planning processes that meet the unique organizational features and complexities of a higher education institution. The study employed a…