This demonstration of the use of a computer simulation research method based on the System Dynamics modeling technique for studying distance education reviews research methods in distance education, including the broad categories of conceptual and case studies, and presents a rationale for the application of systems research in this area. The…

A taxonomy for modeling information systems is presented. Epistemology is used as a prescriptive modeling basis and it is shown how the different models can be made scientifically operational by using a special kind of systems analysis. Results of a preliminary experiment based on one of the models are presented. (60 references) (Author/KE)

Argues that conventional dynamic modeling techniques divert attention from the importance of model structure and discusses various methods of system representation that are suitable for the analysis and improvement of model structure. (Available from IPC (America) Inc., 205 East 42 Street, New York, NY 10017; $46.80 annually.) (Author/JG)

The study presented in this paper is part of the National Institute of Education's effort to study federally sponsored compensatory education programs through demonstration projects. One aspect of the study of demonstration projects concerns the cost associated with the changes in allocation procedures and concentration levels which result from…

This paper describes the characteristics and circumstances defining nine decision cases in an effort to provide methodological assistance for practitioners. Each case is examined according to its objectives (single or multiple), resource level (limited or unlimited), time frame (a priori or evaluative), and the nature of desired decisions. In…

This paper presents concepts and principles pertinent to the development of cross-level and multilevel theory in organizational science by addressing a number of fundamental theoretical issues. It describes hierarchy theory, systems theory, and mixed-level models of organization developed by organizational scientists. Hierarchy theory derives from…

The author's main concern is to provide a research format which will supply a unitary conception of communication. The wide range of complex topics and variety of concepts embraced by communication theory and the rather disparate set of phenomena encompassed by communication research create this need for a unitary study approach capable of linking…

The objectives of this project to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of American Indian education through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) were (1) a system analysis of the BIA schools to identify educational goals and objectives and the critical factors contributing to or impeding eeducational effectiveness in achieving the goals; (2)…

This paper discusses a basic methodological and philosophical confusion in the study of human communication. Various scholars have assumed that the study, description, and definition of various systems have led to an understanding of the processes which underlie, or generate, human communication behavior. In effect, two levels of analysis and…

Computer-based information search services (ISSs) of the type that provide online literature searches are analyzed from a systems viewpoint using a continuous simulation model. The methodology applied is "system dynamics," and the system language is DYNAMO. The analysis reveals that the observed growth and stagnation of a typical ISS can…

THIS RESEARCH GUIDELINE INCLUDES SEVEN ARTICLES ON METHODOLOGY BY WHICH SCHOOL COUNSELORS CAN DESIGN AND CONDUCT RESEARCH STUDIES RELEVANT TO THEIR OWN SCHOOLS AND DISTRICTS. GENERALIZATIONS CONCERNING THE INIATION OF THE STUDY, PROCEDURES FOR ANALYZING AND REPORTING THE DATA, AND INTERPRETATION OF THE DATA ARE GIVEN IN THE INTRODUCTION. RESEARCH…

It is argued that the structural and process models of human communication systems can be derived from the same data, and that communication systems can be described in terms of certain basic parameters; these parameters, in turn, provide a taxonomy of system types. The applicable empirical research data is reviewed to make statements about the…

Simulation is defined and its use, as related to three types of models, iconic, analogue, and symbolic, that may be utilized in educational research is discussed. A five-step procedure is outlined that can be followed in the process of symbolic model construction. Simulation methods, based on these three models, are examined, and illustrations of…

This paper discusses the inadequacies of existing communication paradigms and proposes a new paradigm which integrates general semantics and general system theory in an application to communication theory. The paper includes an historical overview of traditional communication models as well as a discussion of the implications of the paradigm for…

Article describes a systems analysis model for large educational enterprises, which prominently employs instructional objectives. (Author)