Claims, despite extensive research on the role of feedback in learning, there is little theoretical understanding of the concept of feedback, because of overly broad definitions which favor certain explanations and lines of research over others. Discusses implications of feedback research for group facilitation and design of experiential learning…

Discusses the uses for soft systems methodology (SSM) in English language training (ELT) projects. It is suggested that ethnographic techniques may help in achieving the understanding needed to start an ELT project while SSM may provide a useful means for structuring ethnographic findings. (Author/VWL)

Proposes a theoretical and practical hybrid model for family counseling based on integrating the rational-emotive and family systems approach. Notes that these combined approaches offer the counselor a systematic theoretical structure for conceptualizing family dysfunction, from which additional strategies for changing inappropriate belief systems…

Explains how a model of an instructional process can be translated into an instructional processor that can be used to develop courseware for computer assisted instruction. The General Systems Theory is discussed as a conceptual framework, and models based on three levels of the decision-making process are described. (12 references) (LRW)

Describes the systems approach (the Information-Based School Development Project) used by a large education system in Australia for school review and development, involving a research and a service component to help schools identify, obtain, and organize information they need for their own decision-making. Relates two case studies. (SR)

Discussion of electronic performance support systems (EPSS) focuses on performance support engineering and its role in designing performance support systems. Highlights include the organizational performance/learning cycle model; a systems approach to EPSS; computer-based training and other EPSS methodologies; and future possibilities. (LRW)

Presents a conceptual framework and notation for learner modelling in intelligent tutoring systems based on the computational distinction between behavior, behavioral knowledge, and conceptual knowledge and between the system, the learner, and the system's representation of the learner. Approaches to learner modelling based on a review of the…

This paper discusses the rationale for school-based suicide postvention consultation, various arguments for utilization of external and internal consultants, and basic goals of postvention consultation. It advocates an ecological systems view of postvention consultation. (Author/DB)

This article explains dynamic systems theory (DST), a theoretical framework for the management of children with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Three tenets of DST (self-organization of movement, transition, and rate-limiting factors) are examined in light of potential intervention strategies. The need for research to evaluate DST assumptions and…

Discussion of educational systems design describes four systems levels that can be emphasized: learning experience, instructional, administration, and governance levels. Factors to be considered in selecting a focus level and the implications of focusing on the learning experience level are discussed; and a table comparing instructional and…

Proposes a world systems approach to comparative education to overcome the limitations of mainstream case/country-study approaches and the omission of non-Western perspectives. The approach analyzes the existence worldwide of nation-state controlled education systems, which are structurally similar, yet socially differentiated and ideologically…

Learners must acquire a general strategic orientation in their problem solving, to determine what counts as relevant information in problematic situations. A dynamic systems approach is called for in determining whether general or context-specific instructions are needed to promote transfer of relevant information to novel conditions. (Author/JDD)

Discusses the history of the hierarchical epigenetic systems view as applied to human development and offers examples of its implementation. Notes the agreement by many authors that the multilevel systems view is the right model for developmental psychology in both human and animal studies. (BC)

A systematic approach to preparation of successful college lectures is outlined, including four stages: anticipation (of content and expectations); preparation (selection, acquisition, design, and construction); execution (attention to speech habits, demeanor, and body language); and support (evaluation, maintenance, and enhancement). (MSE)

Human resource development professionals have two challenges in total quality management (TQM): showing management what customer focus and leadership mean and declining responsibilities that are not theirs. TQM's systems view of training involves value-adding processes that take place before, during, and after the learning transaction. (SK)