This paper explores potential benefits for the novel critic of exploiting analogies between the novel and the closed system for more rigorous description and interpretation of novels; and further development of the body of theory of novelistic criticism, particularly where there are differences in critics' interpretations of the same work. A…

Previous research is reviewed in which a multi-systems theory of communication behavior has been used to explain communication behavior of individuals and of several organization-related systems and subsystems. Recent research is then summarized which sought to develop conditional probabilities that communication behavior will occur in each of 16…

This paper discusses the philosophy of systems and systems thinking, considers some systems theories, and presents a conceptual model that represents the progression from systems theory to methodology and the implementation of synthesized theories. Following this discussion, the author examines the task of using a systems approach to develop and…

This bibliography is intended to inform administrators of the availability and wide scope of programming-planning-budgeting systems (PPBS) and their applications. The basic objectives of PPBS are: (1) to define jurisdictional objectives clearly and to relate them to defined needs and goals; (2) to stimulate the indepth analysis of all existing and…

Universities are becoming increasingly complex and multifunctional and there is an urgent need for a systematic approach to institutional planning which is capable of treating a total program, rather than a fragment. In this report, the need for planning, elements of comprehensive planning, and a methodological approach to university planning are…

A series of five papers is presented here in an effort to relate the problems of instructional technology to insights and evidence from the behavioral sciences. One paper describes the application of present knowledge and empirical methodology, in the form of the systems approach, to the solution of particular behavioral problems. A second paper…

Curriculum designers have derived data for instructional purposes from 1) the subject matter, 2) society, and 3) the learner. The computer plays an instrumental role in individualizing the presentation of curriculum derived from these sources. Research on instruction has concerned itself with devising material for individual needs and adapting…

An information storage and retrieval system has been developed for reporting job placement and followup data of persons trained in industrial education programs in California public schools. The system is built around five forms: (1) school registration, (2) verification of enrollment, (3) verification of address, (4) in-class follow-through, and…

This study investigated the use of a systems approach to prepare teachers in the use of behavioral objectives. The test group consisted of five male and seven female instructors from Webber College (Florida), a small 2-year institution that prepares women for business careers. An instructor should be able to identify the characteristics of both…

A graduate level course was developed and tested using the techniques of computer-managed instruction (CMI) to teach the techniques of programed instruction. The CMI system included diagnostic testing, remediation, data collection, and record keeping. A study guide, independent of the computer, directed the student to textbooks and other printed…

Computer simulations provide powerful models for establishing goals, guidelines, and constraints in educational planning. They are dynamic models that allow planners to examine logical descriptions of organizational behavior over time as well as permitting consideration of the large and complex systems required to provide realistic descriptions of…

The first two papers in this collection provide an introduction to and an overview of library administration. The third paper discusses the library administrator's needs for continuing education based on a questionnaire survey conducted by the Rutgers Graduate School of Library Service. Contributions of the political scientist and the public…

Increased enrollment and student activism has created a situation within student personnel services that almost defies most management systems. A systems approach can enable student personnel services to evaluate what they are doing to determine if counselors are making a difference in the lives of students. The characteristics of this approach…

Possibilities for greater technologically oriented education are explored. It is theoretically possible, if not economically feasible, to have computer classrooms producing individualized instruction for each child. In connection with technological media it is necessary to keep five ideas in mind. (1) Children today, subjected to many visual and…

The systems model described in this paper outlines the rehabilitation counselor's function as he assists a client toward his final vocational goal. Twelve major components are outlined. Assessment of the client's potential is suggested as the counselor's major function in components 1 through 6, while planning and delivering services to assist the…