This document methodically traces the development of the fundamental concepts of systems thinking in education from Harbert to contemporary innovators. The discussion explains narrative models, concentrating on educational flowcharting techniques and mathematical models related to developments in engineering and physical science. The presentation…

Feedback management in an individually-paced instruction system can be mathematically analyzed by the use of computer simulation models. Because of the student "down time" or waiting time associated with individualized instruction situations, reinforcement activities have been reduced to less than ideal levels. By proper time management the…

The purpose of this study was to define the role and elements of a systems approach for training administrators; to develop a model to serve as a guide for educational and training planners; and to provide a set of criteria for the optimum utilization of resources. The literature was reviewed, specific graphic and mathematical analysis in…

This study evaluates a project proposal prepared by a California school district. Using simple arithmetic and algebraic methods, the evaluators determined that the proposed individualized instruction system would be unsuccessful. A flowchart developed from the proposal visually depicts the weaknesses in the proposal for which appropriate…

The need for a management information system for a community college is developed. Based on this need, a system is outlined. The system and data base are modular in structure. The modules included are: (1) Student, (2) Personnel, (3) Financial, (4) Facilities, (5) Community Information. Examples of the data which are part of each module are…

This document begins by defining and discussing educational planning. A brief overview of mathematical programing with an explanation of the general linear programing model is then provided. Some recent applications of mathematical programing techniques to educational planning problems are reviewed, and their implications for educational research…

PLANTRAN II is a system of computer software designed to assist educational administrators in their planning and analysis activities. The unique feature of PLANTRAN II is that it requires no computer programing experience or expertise. Users with technical background have found PLANTRAN II helpful in their analyses without reducing the complexity…

The Structured Analysis and Design Technique (SADT) analyzes a problem through building a model of the problem on paper which is top-down, modular, hierarchic, and structured. It is a communications vehicle using an iterative author-commenter cycle which focuses attention on defined topics, increases management control, creates a systematic work…

A systems approach to college administration and planning is probably the most valuable tool available for coping with the complex problems facing institutions of higher education today. A system is defined as a set of interrelated elements, units, or subsystems that work together toward a common goal. If a college functions as a system, the…

Too often computer applications try to supplant rather than augment human capabilities. As a result, there is a gap between the power of the computer and some difficult administrative problems; e.g., longrange planning. However, there is increasing interest in the use of computer simulation in planning. PLANTRAN II represents a completely new…

The material in this volume was developed for use in a series of workshops on institutional research and planning for colleges and universities. The workshop sessions made extensive use of computers. This was made possible through the use of PLANTRAN II, a computer simulation system designed to make the power of the computer available to the…

The models presented in this volume were designed to fit the typical situation. Each user of these techniques will have to modify them to ensure their applicability to his institution. Although the material exploits the capabilities of the PLANTRAN system, computer processing is not required for use of the models. The techniques dealt with here…

The models presented in this volume were designed to fit the typical situation. Each user of these techniques will have to modify them to ensure their applicability to his institution. Although the material exploits the capabilities of the PLANTRAN system, computer processing is not required for use of the models. The techniques dealt with here…

This monograph provides a systematic approach to the problem of planning educational facilities. It first presents a conceptual framework for a general facilities planning and management system called Facilities Resource Allocation Management Evaluation System (FRAMES). The main components of FRAMES are identified as: (1) needs assessment, (2)…

This packet contains the materials necessary for presentation of the third of ten modules that comprise a portion of the National Training and Development Service Urban Management Curriculum Development Project. The management by objectives module presents a framework for identifying, integrating, monitoring, and evaluating the goals and…