This paper identifies critical components of recent organizational quality improvement programs and specifies how applied behavior analysis can contribute to quality technology. Statistical Process Control and Total Quality Management approaches are compared, and behavior analysts are urged to build their research base and market behavior change…

Principles for producing well-written college alumni newsletters include keeping reader needs foremost; obtaining strong material; monitoring overall quality and quality of details; devoting time to coming up with bright headlines; using varied formats; having a policy about coverage of subjects; and considering many means of self-evaluation. (MSE)

Discusses the problems of applying quality methods to jobs that are not directly involved with manufacturing such as sales, merchandising, law, health care, accounting, and food service. Presents a model for nonmanufacturing organizations. (JOW)

Application of Total Quality Management (TQM), which stresses total staff commitment to "customer" satisfaction, is reported at increasing numbers of colleges and universities. A survey of 22 institutions found employees felt better about their jobs, students were happier, and communication was improved. Expansion of TQM into the academic arena is…

Includes "Learning by the Numbers" (Oliver); "Industrial Control through Electronics" (Cowen, Haynie); "Data Control with a PC" (Zoghi, Lorenzo); "Portfolio Assessment" (Wolansky); and "Quality in the Classroom: Evaluating Individuals in Group Projects" (McCrea). (SK)

It is suggested that college administrators not let satisfaction with current operations develop into complacency. This includes setting ambitious objectives and providing the climate, resources, and incentives for people to meet high expectations, and requires a periodic critical examination of all operations. (MSE)

Presents a methodological model for orienting teacher researchers. The grounded theory approach is examined, noting it may not be a valuable paradigm. An alternative is proposed which uses quality criteria for professional action as the criteria defining research. Teacher research must concentrate on developing reflective features of professional…

Discussion of videodisc instruction for education and training focuses on a seven-stage quality control model for use with large development projects. Topics discussed include development of instructional goals, videodisc design, development review, production review, programing review, revisions, and a final review and sign off. (eight…

This article notes that regulations governing service provision in residential programs for persons with mental retardation may become decontextualized and fail to address individual needs or specific situations. Ecobehavioral analysis of rule-governed behavior in residential settings is suggested for measuring the effects of regulatory rules.…

Honeywell Inc.'s Canadian manufacturing facility offers comprehensive adult education and training programs. Courses offered spearhead cultural changes needed to become globally competitive. Changes start on the factory floor with those who directly affect three aspects of customer satisfaction: on-time delivery, product quality, and low cost.…

Addresses the issue of assuring quality software for use in computer-aided instruction and presents a structure by which developers can create quality courseware. Differences between courseware and computer-aided instruction software are discussed, methods for testing software are described, and human factors issues as well as instructional design…

The article presents an overview of the quality control procedures of the British Council for National Academic Awards. The Council awards degrees and certificates to persons completing courses of study at educational establishments other than universities. Noted are procedures for institutional accreditation, models of quality assurance, and…

Discussion of educational opportunities in Third World countries focuses on textbook development projects financed by international organizations, including the World Bank. It is concluded that instructional systems development elements are needed in textbook development projects to improve both the quality of textbooks and inservice teacher…

With the increasing focus on educational facilities, facilities managers are experiencing heightened scrutiny over their roles. This report examines the kinds of questions that school board members, superintendents, and administrators are asking facilities managers and the possible consequences of this new attention, such as more outsourcing. (RJM)

Describes the following four conceptions of teaching and discusses each in the context of quality management and evaluation in universities today: (1) performance, enactments, and engagement, including long-term appraisal; (2) industrial production, including product standards; (3) professional practice; and (4) personal calling or vocation.…