Brief discussion of state-of-the-art of modeling complex information systems distinguishes between macrolevel and microlevel modeling of such systems. Network layout and hierarchical system models, simulation, information acquisition and dissemination, databases and information storage, and operating systems are described and assessed. Thirty-four…

Reviews recent empirical outcome literature on family therapy, with special attention to the link among presenting symptom, assessment of system dynamics, and effective outcome. Offers a research design which links symptom via functional system consequence to family process and to therapy outcome. (Author/WAS)

Traces the history of military efforts to systematize the design, development, installation, and operational training for a weapons system and discusses the current status of criterion referenced instruction in Army training programs. Steps being taken to remedy identified problems are described. (MER)

Distinguishes between the process and products of science and describes the role of each in Instructional Development (ID). The observe, hypothesize, test components of the scientific process are examined as they apply to front-end analysis, instructional strategy description, and formative evaluation stages used in ID models. Thirty-four…

Reviews two major approaches to educational reform: (1) a model which sets up varying kinds of alternatives to traditional schools; and (2) an approach that attempts to bring about systematic reform throughout a school or school district. Suggests that these strategies are not mutually exclusive. (Author/GC)

Compares differences in the implementation of management techniques by administrators of student affairs, academic affairs and business affairs. Evaluated their educational accountability. Rank order of management implementation was student affairs, academic and business affairs. Purpose statements and job descriptions were the most widely…

To employ scarce personnel and money to best advantage, company management must diagnose critical training needs and assign them priorities. A systems approach is recommended, which gives focus to training design while accommodating most organization training goals. Included are suggestions for system design, facility management, and cost…

Parents reflected a significant increase in perceived marital adjustment. The children of parents in both groups demonstrated significant increases in self-esteem after treatment. For educated, middle-income families, the critical component in parent counseling may be presentation of information. (Author)

Presents a conceptualization of the process of divorce as a crisis of family transition. Rather than dissolving the family, divorce culminates in its redefinition from a nuclear to a binuclear system. Continuation of meaningful bonds between parents and children reduces major stresses associated with the process of family change. (Author)

Presents job employment patterns in blue-collar occupations for women and proposes a model designed to interest women in nontraditional occupations and provide support networks for women both during and after formal skills training. (MER)

Presents a conceptualization of an anatomy of continuing medical education. It is suggested that a body of knowledge developed for continuing medical education may be useful with suitable modifications in the continuing education of health professionals other than physicians. (Available from University of California Press, Berkeley, CA 94720.)…

Representative models of program evaluation are described by their approach to values, and categorized by empirical style: positivism versus humanism. The models are: social process audit; experimental/quasi-experimental research design; goal-free evaluation; systems evaluation; cost-benefit analysis; and accountability program evaluation. (CP)

Presents papers on four different instructional development models currently in use either in a university or a business setting. All phases of systematic development are covered, including project selection, production, implementation, performance analysis, constraints, and unusual features that distinguish each model. References are listed. (BK)

Over the past eight years the obstetric and gynecology specialty has applied a system model of instructional planning to the continuum of medical education. The systems model of needs identification, preassessment, instructional objectives, instructional materials, learning experiences; and evaluation techniques directly related to objectives was…

On the basis of information obtained from a study of former mental patients (which was conducted under a research grant from the state of Florida), the authors point out the critical need for more comprehensive management information systems. Twelve specific steps for designing such a system are outlined. (Author/JH)