As instructional leadership involves attempts to understand and improve complex systems, this study explored principals' perceptions regarding possible contributions of systems thinking to instructional leadership. Based on a qualitative analysis, systems thinking was perceived by middle and high school principals to contribute to the following…

In Nigeria, the junior secondary business studies curriculum was formed by collocation of five courses. Rather than integrated, the curriculum is coordinated, allowing interaction of complementary subjects that retain their individual identity. A systems approach would enable development of a more integrated curriculum. (SK)

Between May 1967 and June 1970, the Houston Independent School District in consortium with 14 others contracted with USOE to coordinate the development of an organic curriculum. The project's purpose was to create a climate for change, while interpreting for Houston secondary schools the objectives of a plan that would be: relevant, based on…

Discusses methods for introducing innovations in secondary education and describes author's conception of the new high school. (AA)

Curriculum developers must work hard to avoid the "what errors" of curriculum development. They must avoid failing to teach what should be taught and teaching what is no longer relevant and needed. Curriculum "what errors" are likely to occur when teachers design courses so as to teach what they know best, what they were…

Rapid advances in microelectronics over the past few years have generally been beneficial, but they have also created some problems, and questions must be asked about the philosophy for including aspects of the new technology in the school curriculum. This statement, prepared by the Microelectronics and Science Education Subcommittee of the…

An outline of a unit used to teach the political science concept of model-building to both average and above-average high school students is provided. (DE)

A systems approach to modify existing vocational curricula to meet the needs of handicapped learners is presented. The roles of both special and vocational educators at each level of the modification process are discussed, together with the process as it is applied to a component of agricultural education. (Author/CL)

A proposed system of comprehensive education features built-in provisions for the differing needs of individuals with a suggested community-run back-up system. (GR)

Describes basic concepts, learner-centered educational objectives, and interagency aspects of ES'70, a comprehensive nationwide R & D program applying the systems approach to the improvement of secondary education. (JK)

The benefits of technology must be used to design instructional support systems for secondary schools to keep pace with their changing world. (CK)

Discusses the systems thinking approach that uses microcomputer-based simulations and modeling to enhance teaching and learning activities in middle school and high school instruction. Particular focus is placed on the Systems Thinking and Curriculum Innovation Network project, part of a longitudinal study managed by Educational Testing Service.…

The 12 lessons presented in this guide are structured so that they may be integrated into science lessons in 7th-, 8th-, or 9th-grades. Suggestions are made for extension of study. Lessons are approached through classroom role-playing of outer space visitors who seek to understand energy conversion principles used on Earth. Major emphasis is…