Describes a guided design systems approach to teaching political science which combines programmed instruction materials with group problem solving. Using simulated international problems, this approach takes the student through a carefully designed sequence of exercises to improve decision-making skills. (Author/JR)

The successful development, implementation, and validation of a comprehensive forecasting model for postsecondary education in Manitoba during the 1970s have provided insights into the effectiveness of human planning in complex environments. (MSE)

Using planned, sequenced "group initiative tasks," effective cooperative skills can be taught and practiced in an atmosphere of fun and challenge. Such tasks are presented to a group for problem solving, using the physical and intellectual resources of the entire group. (JMM)

The ecological knowledge of university students was analyzed under psychological and educational aspects via a computer simulation, an environmental game consisting of a variant of the Commons Dilemma, and a computerized text base on an actual environmental problem. Conditions impairing acquisition and use of ecological knowledge were discovered.…

Describes three models for teaching effective thinking, but warns against oversimplified approaches. (SRT)

Typical higher management expectations for the planning process are explored, along with why these expectations cannot always be met. Some limitations to planning for computer services are proposed that can make planning meaningful for operational concerns. (MLW)

Among ways suggested for teaching problem solving strategies are to select problem situations appropriate to the learner and to encourage learning from errors. A problem solving process which can be used with young children includes the components of formulation; interpretation; generation; decision making; implementation; evaluation; and…

This description of the development of expert systems designed to solve management problems focuses on the issue of corporate divestment as an example. Software needs are discussed, and an example of a management expert system for divestment analysis at James Madison University is briefly described. (Author/LRW)

The arts of perception, i.e., the arts that enable curriculum workers to see and make use of the significant and particular features of problematic situations, are discussed. The ability to discriminate and give meaning to details has received scant attention in the literature on practical curriculum problem solving. (RM)

The authors present the need for a comprehensive, integrative theory of correctional education. This article applies the paradigm concept to correctional education (CE) in North America. It has five parts: (1) background, (2) paradigm processes, (3) the U.S. CE paradigm, (4) the Canadian CE paradigm, and (5) conclusion. (Author/CT)

Compared an affective (Gestalt two-chair intervention) and a cognitive-behavioral (problem-solving) counseling intervention used to help clients resolve intrapersonal conflicts related to a decision. A one-way analysis of variance revealed that affective intervention was more effective than cognitive behavioral intervention or no treatment for…

Issues management, concerned with the identification, analysis, probability, and timing of a developing issue and with organizational response, is discussed as an aspect of the institutional strategic planning process. Its application at Pennsylvania State University is described. (Author/MSE)

Reports findings of a survey of Illinois school superintendents which focused on which management practices they recommend in response to enrollment decline. Discusses the 32 most highly recommended practices. (KH)

Discusses the implications of a planning and decision concept, "Ideal Displacement." Cautions administrators that the process by which alternatives are developed, weighted, and selected has a profound impact on the quality of the decision. (MLF)

While microcomputers may be easy to acquire and put into use, advance consideration of some pertinent issues will ensure that they are used successfully for planning and management support. (Author/MLW)