Suggests a method for helping students approach problems and initiate the problem-solving process. The system is a self-dialogue involving five questions: (1) what is the problem? (2) what are you to find? (3) what are the givens and the desired outcomes? (4) what is the appropriate formula? and (5) what decision is needed? (JOW)

Presents a theoretical model to account for the transformation of socioemotional group cohesiveness into instrumental group cohesiveness and vice versa, as a result of external or internal stimuli operating on the group, suggesting that instrumental versus socioemotional types are a result of the static nonlongitudinal approach to group research.…

Responding to Willower's earlier questioning of the concept of systems' functional requirements, the author outlines the Parsonian theory of action, discussing action systems' components (values, norms, organizations, and facilities) and their functional imperatives or requirements (pattern maintenance, integration, goal attainment, and…

For centuries, the only point of studying the future was to forecast coming events. But today, the trend among serious futurists is toward a broader view that encompasses value choices as well as probabilities. Systems thinking is replacing prophecy. A systems approach to technology forecasting is discussed. (AM)

Analyzes courses offered in various educational technology programs in terms of the focus of each on one of five organizational elements, and recommends an expansion of current curricula to include not only input, process, and product-oriented learning experiences, but also to include outcome related experiences. (MER)

The article describes a systems framework for assessing attitudes toward learning disabled students. Generalizations concerning the framework are drawn to assist researchers, school practitioners, and project directors in formulating research questions and analyzing data regarding the nature and effects of attitudes toward the learning disabled.…

Offers a conceptual framework for organizational development consultation, through a brief definition of the process, with attention given to the systems approach. The consultation process is described, and a brief statement about consulting in business and higher education settings is included. (Author/JEG)

Reviews research and theories in the area of motivation, and develops a model for a systematic approach to designing motivating instruction. (Author/JEG)

Outlines the main features of the systems perspective, focusing on general systems theory. Suggests that teaching future reporters to think of news events and issues in systems terms may be one approach to expanding the news frame. (PA)

Defines learning organizations and describes essential features, training and trainers, outcomes, and types of leaders. Includes a sidebar by Peter Senge, "Leading Learning Organizations." (JOW)