Comprehensive assessment of educational systems can assist educators in improving the nature of formal education. Goals of education are long range and very general. By observing, describing and classifying teacher and student behaviors, realistic and immediate goals can be established. Effective assessment aids administrative decisions by…

Explains and illustrates three different kinds of models: systems, process (linear), and a systems-process combination. Gives examples of models from ecology, communications, economics, demography, and education to demonstrate the use of models in policy decisions. (DC)

Underscores the imperative for educators to consider futurists' projections of a radically different future. Considers the forecasts and theories of Kahn and Wiener, Meadows, Kuhn, Toffler, and others and questions the implications of educating students for the world each foresees. Urges forethought, constructive planning, and values-based…

Considers two areas of concern for higher education planning: the trend toward general education and the fragmentation of American society. Suggests that decisions now made in seeking balance among a variety of interest and pressure groups will determine the quality of institutional life in the twenty-first century. (Author/SJL)

The author argues that in certain sectors of a society, especially a developing one, the best plan for educational development may be no plan. To illustrate, he analyzes the day-to-day survival problems of the Latin American urban poor and the ways that formal schooling exacerbates these problems. (Author/SJL)

Each institution has an existing planning style, and new approaches to academic planning must take into account institutionalized planning practices. Four planning styles are examined: needs assessment, program data, retrenchment and reallocation, and economic incentives. (Author/MLW)

Presents eight complaints from principals about central administrators. The complaints carry two themes: the central office is too far removed from the realities of school life, and the central office doesn't communicate properly with principals. Offers suggestions to improve the relationship. (Author/IRT)

Reviews and evaluates governmental efforts at the national level to influence curriculum in elementary and secondary classrooms from the mid-1950s to the 1970s. Concludes that while governmental attention can improve certain conditions in the education system, it is likely to contribute in the long run to further educational decline. (Author/DB)

Contains a report of the application of Markov chain analysis to develop a model with analytical and predictive use for planning education for work. A flow model and the Markov chain theory are applied to data from the University of Khartoum. Advantages and limitations of the model are also listed. (CT)

Addresses question of projected decrease in enrollment as it affects educational planning in German institutions of higher education. Suggests that universities should expand their available services to include specified functions and special consumer groups. Buildings, personnel, and financing strategies are also included. (KC)

A framework based on a series of "instructional events" is presented for planning instruction. (JD)

The need for a "third dimension" of formative evaluation in reformulating the goals and design of new education programs is argued. The methods developed to meet this need in the context of the recently completed Florida Linkage System (FLS) project are briefly described. (Author/GK)

Discusses four basic goals for adult education policies in Finland as defined by the Adult Education Committee. These goals are (1) increasing equality of educational opportunity, (2) developing vocational skills; (3) developing skills in dealing with questions in society, and (4) developing personality. (JOW)

Describes five types of schools presently functioning in Catalonia, a Spanish state with its own language existing alongside Spanish. The typology accords with the role of Catalan and Spanish in instruction and in student activities. The expected evolution of this situation is discussed along with a description of the Catalan-education project.…

In light of major problems facing graduate training institutions in the decade ahead, a plea is made for more broadly focused programs, emphasis on a liberal education, and more flexible training for a wider spectrum of career alternatives. (Author/SS)