Examines cybernetics as a model which provides framework with which to view communicators and the communications in the ESL classroom because it implies the kind of feedback the learner can assimilate and act upon. (Author/BK)

This paper identifies the origins of the concept of feedback and its entry into the interpersonal communication literature as a social science variable. It touches on why feedback might be important in interpersonal relations, what it consists of, some of the relevant research, and some possible dangers or misuses. It speaks to how the process of…

This paper offers a model that integrates chaos theory and cybernetics, which can be used to describe the structure of decision making within small groups. The paper begins with an overview of cybernetics and chaos. Definitional characteristics of cybernetics are reviewed along with salient constructs, such as goal-seeking, feedback, feedback…

Presents the results of a manual simulation, which consisted of a simple world model with several feedback loops, to emphasize the particular difficulty of the results of interpreting computer simulations using similar techniques. (CMV)

After examining some elementary notions of action theory and cybernetics, this article analyzes the dynamics, clustering, and survival chances of vicious circles. It argues that the action perspective implies that many structural suboptimalities of organizations are caused by vicious circles. Eleven figures and 105 references are provided. (DCS)

Examines how conductors and orchestras communicate. Communication is essentially nonverbal. Conductors use gestures, gaze, facial expression, nods and posture to deliver their message. Norbert Weiner's Cybernetic Theory of human communication is seen as a means of analyzing precisely how this musical communication takes place. (16 references) (LET)

PROGRAMED TEXTS MUST BE COORDINATED WITH TEACHING MACHINES TO RAISE THE QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION IN HIGHER EDUCATION. THUS, CYBERNETICS CAN BE USED TO INDIVIDUALIZE THE TEACHING PROCESS BY PRESENTING NEW, DISCRETE INFORMATION UNITS TO STUDENTS ONLY AFTER CONTINUOUS FEEDBACK FROM STUDENT TO INSTRUCTOR HAS VERIFIED KNOWLEDGE OF PREVIOUS INFORMATION.…

Presents an overview of feedback within the cybernetics and social frameworks. These feedback concepts are then compared with the interactive feedback concept evolving within the framework of information seeking and retrieving, based on their conceptualization of the feedback loop and notion of information. (Author/AEF)

CYBERNETICS IN EDUCATION IMPLIES COMPLETE CONTROL OF THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROCESS, WHOSE GOALS ARE SPECIFIED BY COMMUNIST POLICY. MODELS FOR INSTRUCTIONAL PROCESSES, INCLUDING BOTH LOGICAL ALGORITHMS, AND NON-ALGORITHMIC OR PROBABILITY PROBLEMS, MUST BE TESTED EXPERIMENTALLY SO SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES CAN BE STATED. THE INSTRUCTIONAL PROCESS ITSELF MUST…

One procedure that can be used to individualize instruction is to teach different pupils by different methods with the intent of reaching a common goal. A cybernetic (self correcting) procedure is proposed for manipulating instructional displays so that after a period of time the instructional procedure used is optimal for a given individual. This…

Claims, despite extensive research on the role of feedback in learning, there is little theoretical understanding of the concept of feedback, because of overly broad definitions which favor certain explanations and lines of research over others. Discusses implications of feedback research for group facilitation and design of experiential learning…