This synthesis of behavioral science research analyzes the meeting as an important organizational tool for principals and discusses the structure and functions of meetings, the role of the leader, and group dynamics. A checklist to guide meeting planning is included. (MJL)

Describes how a graduate class in communication consulting might be structured. Includes a list of readings and class assignments. (PD)

Found that while beginning managers enrolled in a graduate management course overwhelmingly endorsed a nondirective/permissive style of manager-employee communication, they expected compliance from employees only when managers used a directive/autocratic style of communication. Discusses implications for management training and relationship with…

Librarians expect, but do not invariably find among university colleagues, an understanding of the library's educational mission, respect for their professional craft, and reliable communication. (Author)

Using examples from six school districts, the author suggests guidelines to follow in announcing budget cuts, including using caution in estimating cuts, spreading the news widely when specific cuts are known, gathering budget cut proposals and alternatives from the staff and community, and fostering a positive attitude. (Author/RW)

Discusses economically feasible and sensible methods of school-community relations for implementation in small schools; a multifaceted communication approach should be implemented which includes news releases, newsletters, advisory committees, and internal communication. (Author/LC)

Examines the evidence on maladaptively rigid reactions to threats or adversity at the organizational, group, and individual levels and finds that rigidity occurs when information processing and control are restricted in response to threats. Combines social-evolutionary and systems approaches to suggest a theory of threat-rigidity cycles. (RW)

Using public service time on local radio stations allows a community college to inform its constituents about college programs, services, activities, and personnel. (Author/MLF)

Presents research in the areas of information flow and perceptual/attitudinal variables which has been conducted over the past 30 years of organizational communication research. (JMF)

Discusses the benefits of the International Communication Association Communication Audit as a methodology for evaluation of organizational communication processes and outcomes. An "after" survey of 16 audited organizations confirmed the audit as a valid diagnostic methodology and organization development intervention technique which…

People in academic social systems who are interested in promotions learn about decision-making processes in academe, and about communication linkages. They learn to grasp the impact of these linkages and the support networks. An irrefutable ingredient is a sterling professional performance. Applying personal power requires individual tailoring.…

Processes and technologies for efficient and effective decision making in colleges and universities are discussed, with emphasis placed on anticipatory rather than reactive decision making. An integrated institutional database is seen as an essential element for this system. (MSE)

Examines 51 cases of organizational whistle blowing to derive a model of the steps through which whistle blowing incidents progress. From the model it is possible to generalize about the nature of these incidents and how they fit into patterns of organizational communication. (JMF)

New methods for campus recruiting include: video presentations, selective and personal mailings, and exposure of students to a company through work programs and career-related events. Applying public relations techniques and presenting a favorable employer image are also recommended. (KMF)

Probes some ways in which teachers in a preschool system adapted their behavior in the light of the demands that they perceived the organization placed on them. Also examines the communication of power and authority that influenced the behavior of the teachers. (Author/IRT)