For centuries, the only point of studying the future was to forecast coming events. But today, the trend among serious futurists is toward a broader view that encompasses value choices as well as probabilities. Systems thinking is replacing prophecy. A systems approach to technology forecasting is discussed. (AM)

Analyzes courses offered in various educational technology programs in terms of the focus of each on one of five organizational elements, and recommends an expansion of current curricula to include not only input, process, and product-oriented learning experiences, but also to include outcome related experiences. (MER)

The article describes a systems framework for assessing attitudes toward learning disabled students. Generalizations concerning the framework are drawn to assist researchers, school practitioners, and project directors in formulating research questions and analyzing data regarding the nature and effects of attitudes toward the learning disabled.…

Offers a conceptual framework for organizational development consultation, through a brief definition of the process, with attention given to the systems approach. The consultation process is described, and a brief statement about consulting in business and higher education settings is included. (Author/JEG)

Reviews research and theories in the area of motivation, and develops a model for a systematic approach to designing motivating instruction. (Author/JEG)

Outlines the main features of the systems perspective, focusing on general systems theory. Suggests that teaching future reporters to think of news events and issues in systems terms may be one approach to expanding the news frame. (PA)

Defines learning organizations and describes essential features, training and trainers, outcomes, and types of leaders. Includes a sidebar by Peter Senge, "Leading Learning Organizations." (JOW)

Describes a systematic approach for the design of training that supports large software implementation projects. Addresses the diverse combination of users, with different needs and time requirements, and outlines how a systematic design approach can be applied to the design and delivery of complex training solutions related to performance…

This theoretical paper uses cybernetic-based approaches and communications theory to advance knowledge of constructivist learning. Explores a cyber-constructivist perspective (CCP) as a tool for increasing awareness of factors that may contribute to effective constructivist educational design within learning communities, and discusses advantages…

Either semistructured interviews derived from systems theory framework (STF) or standard interviews were used with 18 counseling clients. Measures of self-exploration, environmental exploration, and attribution style supported the merit of STF interviews as an alternative career assessment method. (Contains 28 references.) (SK)

Describes characteristics of two types of leadership: system leaders and personnel leaders. Offers advice on selecting the leader that best fits needs of school. (PKP)

Examines the differences between needs assessment and needs analysis as part of the larger process of identifying and resolving problems and opportunities. Proactive and reactive planners are discussed, a system approach is compared with a systems approach, and steps in a systems approach are identified. (10 references) (LRW)

Assesses the contributions of T. B. Greenfield's "Alternative Theory" to a comprehensive theory for school administration in practice and scholarship. Considers Greenfield's standpoint in relation to rational, natural, and open systems perspectives. (DMM)

Describes basic concepts in the field of general systems theory (GST) and identifies commonalities that exist between GST and instructional systems design (ISD). Models and diagrams that depict system elements in ISD are presented, and two matrices that show how GST has been used in ISD literature are included. (11 references) (LRW)

This paper describes an evolving systems approach for use in exploring aspects of creativity, including: measurement of creativity; uniqueness; processes which amplify deviation; novelty and progress; chance and purpose; networks of enterprise; self-concept; difficulty, duration, and purpose; sudden insight; and sequential stage theories. (JDD)