Explains the theory of learning organizations and offers examples from and implications for library management practice. Parallels are drawn between academic library reorganization and the ideas of learning organizations. (Author/JKP)

Discusses a concept of quality in vocational education and training in the United Kingdom that emphasizes the role of the learner in the learning process. Total quality management is described, criteria for quality in vocational education and training are suggested, and implications for National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are discussed. (12…

Describes experiences of University of Tennessee as attempts were made to spread total quality management (TQM) concepts more effectively across the campus. Describes what TQM is, background and initiation of project, and results of project implementation. (NB)

A survey of 220 Hewlett-Packard United Kingdom employees revealed that they attended total quality training because of management pressure. To be effective, total quality training should emphasize the company's objectives, demonstrate applicability to work, and help participants select feasible quality projects. (SK)

Total quality management can be applied in the classroom to improve productivity, reduce costs, and improve the quality of education. The willingness of the institution to survey its customers and respond to needs and suggestions is of utmost importance. (Author/JOW)

Twelve articles on total quality management (TQM) cover the following: corporate transformation; systemic barriers to quality improvement; Japan's experience; avoiding costly mistakes; the experience of Land-Rover, Hewlett Packard, and Britain's Royal Mail; unleashing the potential of people; and a profile of a senior TQM practitioner. (SK)

Suggests a team approach for effectively and efficiently providing services for postsecondary students with disabilities. Reviews various teaming concepts and presents a framework for a postsecondary disability problem-solving team. (Author/JOW)

A survey of U.S. business school deans (n=117) examined organizational, faculty development, and curricular changes business schools have made as a result of the total quality management movement. Results indicate that a few business schools have moved forward rapidly but the vast majority are in a wait-and-see, exploratory, or experimental mode.…

Examined the usefulness of systematically accounting for acceptable physician variations in guideline application. Review of 141 cases of treatment of acute myocardial infarction in a Canadian hospital show that even seemingly noncontentious guideline protocols do not offer a threshold of variation similar to conventional Continuous Quality…

Business students interviewed managers in 94 companies, 52 of which were involved in total quality management (TQM). Those not using TQM cited no perceived benefits or small company size. They were less likely to provide training in group process, empower employees to make quality improvements, or employ cross-functional teams. (SK)

Discusses how the four Total Quality Management (TQM) principles--customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, empowerment, and teamwork--can help teachers and students increase their efficiency and effectiveness in the classroom. Introduces two models that successfully include the four principles of TQM. (JOW)

A Difficulty Index was used to calculate the degree of difficulty in applying Knowles' adult education principles relative to material structure, student maturity, objectives, class size, and schedule to an accounting course. The course involved a significant amount of student self-assessment. (SK)

Illustrates a new model for innovative enterprises by reviewing the process an instruments and control systems manufacturer used to implement changes in its corporate operating philosophy. Outlines the "Quantum Model": spheres of control, influence, interest, and UNs (unknown, unpredictable, uncontrollable, uncomfortable). Discusses…

Surveys of business school deans in 1995 (n=243) and 1998 (n=151) regarding total quality management (TQM) practices revealed increases in mission and strategy development, goal setting, and use of advisory boards and cross-functional teams. Few are using TQM to manage core learning processes. (SK)

Describes the efforts undertaken and lessons learned by the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation as it began the transformation of its agency culture in keeping with a total quality management model. Discusses the struggle encountered by the agency in making the personal transformation necessary for the transformation of the…