Presents adaptations and tests undertaken to allow an information retrieval system to forecast the likelihood of avalanches on a particular day; the forecasting process uses historical data of the weather and avalanche conditions for a large number of days. Describes a method for adapting these data into a form usable by a text-based IR system and…

Observations and interviews over six months at seven adult mental health day programs in Canada showed how organizational context shapes occupational therapy practice. The social organization of knowledge forms an invisible controlling apparatus that constrains the empowerment of adult clients. (96 references) (JOW)

The tremendous impact of technological change on human workers, coupled with declining resources in many college and university information technology programs, can create an emotionally and physically harmful environment for employees. They can also present an important opportunity for positively changing cognitive behavior and increasing…

Makes comparisons between the Earth and other planets to suggest a possible vehicle for predicting the effects of human-made or natural disasters on our Earth. Also included are brief discussions of the following topics: (1) the atmosphere and greenhouse effect; (2) alterations of the biosphere; (3) climate and climatic change; (4) the water…

The history of the National Marriage Guidance Council (Great Britain) from 1948 to 1988 is used as a case study to illustrate some of the basic organizational dilemmas and conflicts experienced in counseling agencies. Discusses three organizational dynamics: social and cultural environment, structure and ideology, and lifespan. (JPS)

The ability of the university culture to adapt to changing environmental conditions that challenge the institution's primary functions and values (academic freedom, autonomy) is discussed, and management approaches that mirror the specific culture of a university are described. Methods for assessing culture are described, a typology for…

Reports on a study that found that the perceived quality of coworker information and superior-subordinate communication concepts were directly related to voluntary turnover intentions, as were organizational commitment and perceived job alternatives. (TB)

The difficulty of balancing teaching and scholarship for faculty in newly established higher education institutions is discussed. Using quantitative and qualitative data, reasons for the incompatibility between the two faculty functions are outlined. It is suggested that new approaches to providing support and resources for teaching and research…

The honors program at the University of Texas at San Antonio serves an ethnically diverse, often underprepared, and commuter student population with special courses and support. The program's success to date illustrates the importance of strong support and effective leadership at all levels within the institution. (Author/MSE)

Study determined that correctional treatment staff members who reported having quality personal relationships in the work environment experienced fewer stressors at work. Suggests that additional studies are needed to determine whether professional orientation plays a role in job stress; if organizational climate factors have a role in mediating…

Details what has happened to demand for overseas university education by Singaporeans since the economic crisis of 1997. The demand has risen over the last year, but fear of future economic conditions has caused students to switch their target preferences. Most students cannot afford to enroll in higher education programs in Europe and North…

Discusses electronic learning in the corporate world and other training settings. Reports results of a Web-based survey that addressed training methods; interest in Web-based learning; organizational support for Web-based courses; types of online training; in-house training development versus outsourcing; assessment; pedagogical practices;…

Congress passed spending measures in fiscal 1988 that included at least $495 million for projects involving specific universities, an increase of over 12% over fiscal 1997. These projects are not subject to competitive review based on merit. Some earmarked money is shared across states or with businesses or other organizations. Opponents of…

Examines whether the established and traditional norms and standards of public librarianship structure the way challenges such as market orientation and privatization are met and coped with, or whether these standards are losing their structuring power. Compares three metropolitan library systems representing three different levels of…

Reviews the profiles of a typical public library, the Redondo Beach Public Library (California), and its nearby community college library, the Schauerman Library at El Camino College in Torrance, California. Discusses similarities between staff in public and academic libraries; differences between the two environments; and like missions of both…