Showing papers by "University of Lincoln published in 2000"

Giving Requisite Variety to Strategic and Implementation Processes: Theory and Practice 1

Abstract: Fundamental disagreements are inherent in the variety of viewpoints, and often coercive nature of relationships, contained within an organisation. In this paper I explain how differences in purpose can be handled successfully using approaches to complexity which take forward ideas developed since the 1950s in organisational cybernetics [1][2][3][4]. These methods complement the powerful complexity ideas derived from work focused on more unitary biological systems [5][6]. In Part 1, I work the requirements for individual and organisational survival and for participation leading to effective performance. I explain why managing differences in purposes in an increasingly interdependent world depends on finding organisational structures which balance the interests of autonomous individuals with those of the global social systems in which they participate. Design criteria are identified for optimising strategic and implementation processes and forging cohesive and effective organisational operations. Part 2 introduces through examples a methodology for undertaking related organisational transformations. This methodology has resulted in new strategic and implementation processes through the design of organisational structures which establish novel forms of co-operative relationships based on trust and self-organising autonomy.

Primary Science: Teaching Theory and Practice

Abstract: Introduction The nature of scientific understanding Processes and methods of scientific enquiry Children's ideas Science in the Foundation Stage Teaching strategies Planning Classroom organisation and management Assessment, recording and reporting Using ICT in science Health and safety

Re-valorizing Rubbish: Some Critical Reflections on ‘Green’ Product Strategies:

Abstract: The last twenty years has seen the rise of a series of intellectual and practical responses to environmental degradation. Many socialists and critical theorists have sought to develop sophisticated analyses of ecological despoiling and have aimed to provide the contours of various ‘eco-socialist’ alternatives. These range from visions of small-scale communal autarky through ‘green’ or ‘eco-city’ concepts to global perspectives. Crucially, for most of these ecologically minded socialists, the social relations of capitalism rather than simply the ‘industrial mode of production’ has been the focus of critique. Where many liberal or reactionary environmentalists see the industrial processes of production and the wasteful activities of consumption as driving the planet towards ecological doom, most socialists seek to analyze the ways in which the relational social processes of capital augment, enlarge and exaggerate the ecological harm that results from industrial production and mass consumption.

Producing for the Web

Abstract: Web Production for Writers and Journalists is a clear and practical guide to planning, setting up and managing a website.

The Effects of Pre-Service Training and Experience on Preparation for the Principalship in England.

Abstract: This paper provides a synopsis of the findings of a national survey of headteachers conducted in 1999 by means of a self-completion postal questionnaire. The survey sought to establish the perceptions of English headteachers with regard to their state of readiness on taking up the role. Where respondents reported themselves as well prepared or extremely well prepared for aspects of their role, they were asked to attribute their perceived state of readiness to training, experience, or a combination of the two. In addition, respondents were asked to complete open-ended questions that asked them to identify activities and support that would help the induction of newly appointed headteachers working in the special-education sector. Analysis of all responses reveals that the majority of headteachers (57 percent) perceived themselves to be either well prepared or extremely well prepared. The influence of training was deemed to be minimal by respondents in all categories. Most surprising was that headteachers did not perceive themselves to be well prepared in applying law to specific situations. (Contains 7 references.) (DFR) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. 0 0 American Education Research Association New Orleans, Louisiana April, 2000 The effects of pre-service training and experience on preparation for the principalship in England. Trevor Male International Educational Leadership Centre University of Lincolnshire and Humberside, ENGLAND. Marianne Hvizdak Department of Educational Administration University of Texas (El Paso). Correspondence: Trevor Male International Educational Leadership Centre, University of Lincolnshire and Humberside, Brayford Pool, Lincoln. LN6 7TS ENGLAND Telephone: Facsimile: Email: +44 1522 886346 +44 1522 886023 tmale@lincoln.ac.uk PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE AND DISSEMINATE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY

Corporate communications: audiences, funding and crisis management

Abstract: Who are the key audiences of corporate communications? Is the communication department adequately funded? And how are crisis handled? This paper reports an empirical research conducted in 20 British organisations, with a focus on these three questions. It is found that internal publics, financial PR and opinion formers are viewed as the three most important audiences. Although most organisations now are more conscious of their corporate identity than ever before, the function is generally funded inadequately.