A heuristic approach to explaining of the Black-Scholes option pricing model in undergraduate classes is described. The approach draws upon the method of protocol analysis to encourage students to "think aloud" so that their mental models can be surfaced. It also relies upon extensive visualizations to communicate relationships that are…

Describes a cost analysis model and procedures which permit the realignment of costs and outcomes. Full cost v direct costs, alternative approaches, accuracy of the selected approach, and the cost analysis report are also briefly discussed. (Author/JEG)

To compare the unit cost of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) programs, there must be a standard model for calculating the cost of computer services. Such cost can be classified into direct costs--expenditures made directly by the group in charge of CAI programs, and indirect costs--expenditures made by other groups in support of CAI services.…

The approach to library planning studied in this paper is the use of accounting models to measure library costs and implement program budgets. A cost-flow model for a university library is developed and tested with historical data from the General Library at the University of California, Berkeley. (4 references) (Author)

Presents a methodology, known as microcosting, for identifying the unit costs of providing specific library services. It is applied for illustrative purposes to the determination of the unit costs of tracking overdue materials at a major university library; a task flowchart, mathematical formula, and data tables are included. (Author/JD)

The objectives of the study leading to this report were to review, analyze and summarize published library cost data; and to develop a cost model and a methodology for reporting data in a more consistent and useful way. The cost model and reporting procedure were developed and tested on the circulation system of three libraries: a large university…

This document attempts to provide managers and designers of information systems with a usable, practical "building block" system for unit costing. The model is sufficiently flexible to be applicable to a wide variety of cost control requirements; costing elements include project, product, account, organization and function. Design of the cost…

The development and evaluation of a system for designing instructional plans and resource patterns for those plans are described. Development of the system, which was in three stages, was based on the premise that decisions concerning efficient allocation of resources and the use of resources for effective instruction cannot realistically be made…

Efforts of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst illustrate the use of cost information in decision-making. The Instructional Cost Index can be used to determine the unit costs of instruction and, combined with information from an induced course load matrix system, can provide data on the costs of programs. (LBH)

This publication discusses a cost analysis study of bilingual education in Texas that sought to determine the per-pupil costs of a minimally adequate program that would correspond to the regular monolingual program funded under the state's foundation finance program. The study identified the essential costs of a model bilingual education program…

Recent evidence suggests that traditional cost analysis may not be the most appropriate way to justify educational budgets. This article suggests that using constructed cost models to develop operating budget requests can help ensure that the distinction between legitimate information needs and managerial autonomy is maintained. (LBH)

Discusses the problem of calculating unit costs for higher education, with special attention to the allocation of research-related costs and various indirect costs to undergraduate and graduate students. Calculates unit costs and budget allocations for a hypothetical state university system, based on different policy assumptions regarding cost…

Management modeling techniques are applied to setting operational and capital goals using cost analysis techniques in this case study at the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery. The model was created as a planning tool used in developing a financially feasible operating plan and a 100 percent physical renewal plan. (LBH)

Cost-per-student calculation methods produce different values that create problems for decision-makers in evaluating their use. Several available cost models are compared and differences in methods of looking at the costs of health sciences education are discussed. (LBH)

This study was designed to develop and test a model which can be used to determine the operating costs by subject area for colleges in the Virginia Community College System. The model provides a graphic analysis of the cost of offering a subject and the income derived as enrollment in each section of the course is varied. By projecting the…