New ways of looking at management information systems in human service delivery

The functional aspects of management information systems (MIS's) in human-service delivery agencies are critically examined from the viewpoint of a behavioral systems analysis model. This model distinguishes between MIS as an information-gatherer and as a system to control agency behavior and administrative decision-making. The choice of a particular MIS involves the consideration of the agency 's informational objectives, the extent to which the MIS exerts control over the decision-making process, and its cost-effectiveness. The behavior-analytic approach to MIS requires an evaluation of the way in which the system affects the behavior of agency personnel and, ultimately the clients.     

《福乐智慧》中所反映的早期苏非

对于一个正在谋求发展的政权,苏非的避世苦修、清心寡欲、淡泊名利、不问世事并不值得提倡,正如11世纪新疆喀喇汗王朝的著名文学作品《福乐智慧》所提到的日出国王统治的国度,伊斯兰教正统派信仰盛行并以积极的态度参与国家治理。当时苏非已经出现,处于发展的初期阶段,属于个人行为,未形成大的苏非教团,但显然在社会和统治阶层中得到了一定程度的认同。究其原因,苏非神秘主义以其虔诚的独特的思想体系和修行方式为穆斯林的宗教生活增加了直觉体验和宗教情感,是对穆斯林宗教生活的合理补充。     

Trait Affection Predicts Married Couples’ Use of Relational Maintenance Behaviors

The present study analyzed the role that trait affectionate communication, an individual-level trait, plays in dyads’ enactment of relational maintenance behaviors. We hypothesized that trait affection positively predicts both husbands and wives’ enactment of relational maintenance behaviors. In addition, we hypothesized that the relative contribution of wives’ trait affection to relational maintenance would be stronger than that of husbands. One hundred and forty-three married heterosexual couples completed questionnaires, and data were analyzed using the actor-partner interdependence model. Results revealed significant actor effects in 9 out of 10 cases. Results also revealed four partner effects. Husbands and wives’ trait affection mutually influenced their enactment of assurances, and husbands’ trait affection positively predicted wives’ enactment of positivity and network sharing. Results are discussed in terms of relational maintenance research and theories of affectionate interaction.     

Prevention of Elder Mistreatment in Nursing Homes: Competencies for Direct-Care Staff

Existing training on elder mistreatment in nursing homes focuses on detection and reporting of abuse, with little training specifically targeted toward prevention of mistreatment before it occurs. We used qualitative interviews with nursing home staff, policy makers, and related professionals to identify training needs. Based on participant accounts, we drafted a number of competencies essential for caregiver training to prevent mistreatment in nursing homes. Competencies include those dealing with definitions and policies, risks for mistreatment, communication and respect in relationships with residents, and development of a cooperative work environment. Competencies are discussed along with illustrative examples, and implications for practice and policy are addressed.     

A MADM justification of a budget reduction decision

In 1988, a significant budget reduction at the University of Wyoming left the Athletic Department nearly $700,000 short on operating funds compared to the previous biennium. In order to make the necessary monetary cuts, the Athletic Department eliminated the men's and women's varsity ski teams from University sponsorship, thus removing one of the most successful and popular programs from the athletic family. A protest of this action quickly spread throughout the state and the Athletic Department received harsh criticism. However, through the cardinal preference techniques of Multiple Attribute Decision Making, it was determined that the criticism of the Athletic Department for dropping the ski programs was unfounded. But in light of the politics of the situation, after several months of deliberation, the ski programs were eventually reinstated with a greatly reduced budget and the team committed to raise a certain percentage of their monetary requirements through their own fund raising efforts.     

A systematic approach to increasing use of management-oriented program evaluation data

With the implementation of Management Information Systems (MISs) in human service delivery settings, came the expectation that managers would make data-based decisions. There is substantial evidence, however, that this has not occurred. The present authors describe a systematic approach to correcting this deficiency. The approach involves a behavioral definition of management information use, the identification of disruptions in the behaviors comprising information use, and an intervention designed to reduce disruptions and promote use. Conclusions about the effectiveness of this approach gained from its implementation in a community mental health center are described.     

语言意识形态和语言秩序:全球化与美中两国的多语(教育)战略

全球化给美国和中国的多语教育带来什么挑战?美中两国采取何种语言战略应对全球化挑战?这些都是全球化时代大国在政治斗争和软实力较量中不可回避的问题.针对这些问题,本文提出语言意识形态和语言秩序两个概念,并以这两个概念为理论框架,对美中两国的语言意识形态、语言秩序及语言战略的历史和现实做出初步分析.全球化正在改变美中两国的语言意识,并重组两国的语言秩序,从而给多语教育带来挑战和机会.