This paper uses the conceptual framework of cybernetics to understand why learning information systems such as the "Accelerated Reader" work so successfully, and to examine how this simple yet incisive concept can be used to accelerate learning at every level and in all disciplines. The first section, "Basic Concepts,"…

This paper describes a new and innovative approach to school improvement called Knowledge Work Supervision (KWS). KWS draws on individual and team-based knowledge work; uses school-community strategic planning methods; encourages participative work redesign; and redesigns knowledge work, social architecture, and environmental relationships. KWS…

This report presents eight different approaches adapted by schools to dramatically raise student achievement. The schools combine comprehensive, whole-school change with systems-level restructuring to help a large proportion of schools around the country achieve excellence. The eight programs include (1) ATLAS (Authentic Teaching, Learning, and…

Broad patterns in the last 30 years of research on educational change are traced in this synthesis paper. The three dominant perspectives are: (1) the rational-scientific perspective that posits that change is created by the dissemination of innovative techniques; (2) the political perspective (the "top-down" approach) that generates…

This document outlines the 1992 proposals of the Education Commission of the States (ECS) to gain public commitment and to assist state leaders in translating educational vision into reality. The first part examines the need for systemic educational reform, arguing that the key to systems change is a renewed democratic debate about public policy.…

This paper proposes a model of organizational analysis, developed at the Department of Organizational Development at the University of Klagenfurt (Austria), as a framework for cross-cultural education. The model is derived from open systems theory which claims that organizational analysis should focus on the relationship of all the pieces of an…

This paper, which updates and expands on the first edition (1981), begins by presenting a definition of instructional development (ID) and a discussion of its origins. A taxonomy for classifying ID models is then suggested, and it is noted that most ID models have been subjected to only a limited degree of testing. The 12 ID models that are…

Dysfunctional relations between the family and other social systems usually play a part in maintaining refractory problems and chronic patienthood. Therapeutic interventions need to work at this interface, in order to create a collaborative team that will provide sufficient support to the family at risk. This way of working can be easily applied…

Rapid advances in microelectronics over the past few years have generally been beneficial, but they have also created some problems, and questions must be asked about the philosophy for including aspects of the new technology in the school curriculum. This statement, prepared by the Microelectronics and Science Education Subcommittee of the…

This glossary offers definitions of almost 600 terms normally associated with the field of educational technology in brief and easy-to-understand form, all in Spanish (a Portugese version exists). The terms are organized into six major areas: learning, communications, instructional design, evaluation, media production, and systems theory. (Author)

The author contends that college and university administrators often become bogged down in the "techniques and tools" of planning systems, thereby losing sight of the real problems and goals. He defines the errors that inhibit good planning and suggests a planning model called the "Louis and Clarke tour" based on envisioning a goal and moving…

Instructional development, a systematic way of applying standards of critical thought to the design of instructional materials and programs, is advocated for its potential contribution to consistency of instructional purposes and actions, adaptability, and internal accountability. Steps in the systematic method, the evaluation problem, and choice…

Examples of how open-plan systems allow architects both better flexibility and greater creativity. (Author/MLF)

Proposes a restructuring of the communication training programs offered by trainer/consultants to meet the needs of changing internal and external organizational pressures and demands. (MH)

Reports an exploratory investigation of the relationships among elementary school principals' ability to think abstractly, their perceived leadership styles, and the degree of complexity of their school interpersonal environments. A positive relationship exists between principals' complexity of conceptual structure and the degree of complexity of…