Explores the relationship between a general theory of living systems and the conceptualization and practice of counseling. Emphasis is placed on the individual. After providing a rationale for adopting a systems perspective, specific system dimensions are discussed. The relationship of these dimensions to current counseling theories is developed.…

Addresses clinical and methodological issues in conducting the Marital Systems Study, a research project evaluating the efficacy of systems-oriented conjoint treatment with couples in which one spouse is abusing alcohol. These include standardizing and monitoring the intervention and developing an interactional perspective on the alcohol-related…

This paper identifies projects that have successfully applied the systems approach to instructional design and points to situations where that approach may be inappropriate. A method which relies on strict sequencing of objectives and means may not be easily adaptable for individualized programs in which means and ends emerge from instructional…

Colleges and universities, it is suggested, can enhance their effectiveness by adopting a systems approach to organizing, planning, decision-making, and evaluating. A decentralized, participative model that emphasizes systematic planning and management by objectives is presented. (Author/MLW)

Presents a research-based marketing model consisting of an environmental scanning process, a series of marketing audits, and an information-processing scheme. Views the essential elements of college marketing as information flow; high-level, long-term commitment; diverse strategies; innovation; and a broad view of marketing. Includes a marketing…

Introduces the concept of extreme interpersonal sensitivity and reviews literature relating to it. The concept is only indirectly alluded to by family theorists. Extreme interpersonal sensitivity seems to be characteristic of a lack of individuation in the family system. Clinical examples are offered to clarify this concept. (Author/JAC)

Presents findings from study of design activities among 26 novice instructional designers which investigated prevalence of initial generation of more than one design solution; basis on which solutions are accepted or rejected; constraints encountered in proceeding with design; way in which designers know design is finished. Twelve references are…

A recently developed and implemented system to evaluate dental school administrators is described. Issues of concern include misuse of information for personnel decisions, confidentiality, accuracy of evaluations, support of top administrators, perceptions of the program, reflection of local needs and circumstances, and planned flexibility. (MSE)

Introduces performance technology as a field of application for training professionals. The term "performance technology" is defined and explained, the epistemological foundations of performance technology are outlined, the relevance of performance technology to training and human development is described, and myths about performance…

Presents a model of therapy called "system therapy." Discussed epistemology, some basic concepts, stages of the therapeutic process, and the training of system therapists. Proposes and defines a therapeutic system. (Author)

Presents a model showing how symptoms differ from other adaptive behaviors by their low productivity. Symptom's paradoxical dual norm structure result from communication patterns and indirect strategies which control the environment. Suggests if such structures are to be removed promptly, different but equally stable dual norm structures are…

Reviews four different approaches to evaluation--decision-oriented, applied research, value-oriented, and systems-oriented--and suggests how each may be applied to the evaluation of instructional programs. Nine references are listed. (Author/CHC)

In workstation design, furniture selection and arrangement directly relate to the way in which work is accomplished. Standardized workstations are being developed to fit the specific needs of various job categories within the electronic office. (Author/MLF)

Suggests that the Golden Age of criminal justice research has ended with an impending era of austerity. Reviews the work done in the past forty years and recommends a return to the people-oriented research that characterized the Chicago School of the early '20s rather than systems research. (Author/JAC)