To prepare school professional personnel to design and/or function within a system for systematic planning requires preparation programs that will provide them with more sophisticated planning skills that are typically found in current educational programs. (Author/MLF)

Three principles of general systems theory are presented and systems theory is distinguished from systems analysis. The principles state that all systems tend to become more disorderly, that they must be diverse in order to be stable, and that only those maximizing their resource utilization for doing useful work will survive. (Author/LBH)

Thirty-six assumptions are presented in this examination of clinical observation as a structure, i.e., as a systematic array of tasks for persons in defined positions with the intent of achieving instructional purposes. (MJB)

A systematic approach for implementing a comprehensive career education program at the individual school level is described. The advantages of using the Career Activities (CAT) System are presented. (Author)

This paper deals with a possible way of separating six modes of needs assessment (Kaufman, 1972) into two types. The most common, internal, looks at needs from within the organization, and external needs assessment looks at needs from the outside of the organization doing the study. (VT)

The course described provides a model for the training of instructional designers through a systems approach. (STS)

The existence of two different approaches to the theoretical understanding of social behavior is noted. Presents a systems model as offered by Talavage and compares it with Rotter's social learning theory. (Editor/RK)

A model for problem solving involving the use of analogical or metaphorical thinking as it applies to generalsystems synthesis is presented. (RW)

Presents a systems theory approach to strategic planning and a framework for conceptualizing and managing the process more effectively. Reviews problems in past strategic planning efforts, presents a synopsis of systems theory, and applies the systems approach to planning and decision-making processes. Includes two figures and 26 references. (MLH)

Makes three points to address central issues in synthesis of cognitive, social, and emotional domains. Recommends thinking in stage terms as well as in contextual terms, clarifying levels in which questions are posed, and operating in a systems theory framework to make sense of social cognitive behavior. Suggests that individuals co-create social…

Presents two conference reviews. The first review by G. Mary Bourne reviews the conference "Accessing Inherent Resources in Individuals and Families" held in Minneapolis in September 1986. The second review by Michael E. Kerr reviews the conference "Twenty-Third Georgetown University Symposium on Family Theory and Family Psychotherapy" held in…

Describes a model of instructional theory relevant to individualized distance education that is based on Keller's Personalized System of Instruction (PSI), behavior analysis, and the instructional systems development model (ISD). Systems theory is emphasized, and ISD and behavior analysis are discussed as cybernetic processes. (LRW)

Presents a rationale and a description for incorporating family-systems knowledge and assessment into parent education programs. Emphasizes that an awareness and analysis of family-systems dynamics is extremely important for counselors who teach parent education. Examines issues in assessment and intervention with family system characteristics,…

If training is to make a real difference in the organization, we need an alternative to the vacuum of performance. A view exists that springs from two fundamental premises: (1) every individual operates in the context of a performance system and (2) improvements in performance will occur only if we understand the variables in that system. (JOW)

The author proposes an integrated systems approach to managing governmental organizations based on a job task analysis called Job Task Systems Management. Job task analysis is not merely a basis for training development, but also a foundation for all other aspects of the organization's management system. An application example is provided.…