Discusses the historical development of "hard" and "soft" systems thinking traditions and examines how these traditions have been understood and applied in the field of instructional development. Proposes the need for a synthesis of the two traditions in planning, implementing, and evaluating instructional programs. (AEF)

In this final volume of a three-volume series on the construction of self-instructional systems, the focus is on various aspects of post-construction control and improvement. As the first step in this phase, the process of polishing the material by checking for readability, integration, retention, and motivation is described and some of the aids…

This publication presents an instructional system design (ISD) which is a systematic procedure for assuring the application of planning and organization to vocational programs. The resulting instructional system, according to the author, is an integrated combination of resources, students, instructors, materials, equipment, techniques, and…

The document provides a model for planning and evaluating adult basic education (ABE) programs in correctional settings and is also a workbook for its implementation. It requires the use and understanding of systems techniques and concepts. The introduction discusses the rationale for and development of the conceptual model; basic systems,…

Using effectivemess, efficiency, self-sustenance, and communicability as criteria, a conceptual model, called SCRAPE, was developed at the University of Texas to systematically describe educational behaviors. The key elements of the system are: (1) diagnosis and prescription, (2) instructional events, (3) achievement evaluation, and (4) consequent…

The Instructional Systems Design model is presented. Phases of the model are explained. They are: (1) analysis (organizational, learner, and job needs, and evaluation); (2) design (objectives, specifications, strategies, evaluation); (3) development (evaluation, tests, media, materials); and (4) implementation (instructor characteristics, training…

The Engineering Technologies Division of the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Canada has developed a systems approach to program review called Competency Profile Development (CPD). This approach utilizes a combination of organizational communication, project management, management-by-objectives, a modified Developing A Curriculum…

Attempting to define the optimal use of educational resources for large numbers of students, a research group at the University of Texas at Austin has adopted a system approach to curriculum development consisting of the following components: content, teacher, student, machine, and media. The first procedural step in the system is to define the…

The implementation and results of a project to optimize the learning program at Wytheville Community College are discussed. A systems approach to instruction was selected as the best method of assuring continuing improvement of the teaching/learning process, the productivity of the college, and, ultimately, the long-range goals of the college. An…

The model was designed to provide a guide for systematic planning, implementation, and evaluation of adult career education in correctional settings, utilizing a systems approach. It consists of seven chapters and a flowchart presenting seven major functions which must be carried out: (1) establishing a conceptual framework, (2) setting up an…

Over 100 interactive computer programs for use in general and organic chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin have been prepared. The rationale for the programs is based upon the belief that computer-assisted instruction (CAI) can improve education by, among other things, freeing teachers from routine tasks, measuring entry skills,…

Phase III of an experimental demonstration program in adult basic education in corrections is reported. The two major program goals were: (1) training of selected personnel in use of models to achieve goals of adult basic education for correctional settings; and (2) evaluation of conceptual model and design of instructional delivery system models…

A guide to the implementation of the Entry Level Skills Program (ELSP) and a conceptual framework for evaluation research is presented. Attention is directed to strategies for the attainment of goals and management of the ELSP project, which is a developmental program for freshmen students who have not acquired the full range or level of cognitive…

The Cape Girardeau Project was involved in planning-operational year activities during the 1971-72 academic year. The two major kinds of activities centered on those dealing with planning and pilot classes in preparation for implementing the innovative Trimester/Modular Scheduling Plan at Cape Central Senior High School; and those aimed at…

Texas is shifting to an integrated, systems-oriented approach to providing work force services for its residents and employers in which all services are guided by a single mission and vision. Implementation strategies are clearly focused on achieving common results. Accountability means being able to ensure taxpayers, residents, employers, and…