Principles Of General Systems Theory Research Articles

Tests and prediction: A systems analysis approach

Some basic principles of general systems theory were applied to the problem of test measurement and prediction. Although test measurement in the past has been primarily concerned with the contribution of person variance, it was suggested that there can be no artificial separation between the person and the operational system in which the person is imbedded, so that the contribution of system variance influencing person performance requires equal measurement emphasis. Following also from a systems analysis view, it was observed that causal effects do not follow the traditionally assumed straight-line unidirectional path, put rather causality evidently occurs in a circular chain direction or bidirectional form. That is, there are circular cause-effect influences coming from both the person as well as the system. This led to the conclusion that it is just as reasonable to make predictive statements from the system as from the person.

Problems in the Building of Mathematical Models for Geographic Systems

AbstractSome basic concepts and principles of general systems theory applicable to geographical systems are formulated. A geosystem is viewed from the point of view of the controllable processes that convert it from one state to another and insure its self-regulation and stability. Since geographical systems derive energy from the surrounding environment and use it for their physical-chemical and biological functions, the structural elements of such systems behave thermodynamically like automata performing irreversible processes, and the laws of thermodynamics can therefore be applied to the functioning of such systems. A mathematical apparatus is demonstrated for the study migratory flows of mass and energy in geographical systems.

An Overview of Systems Theory

As an open system constantly exchanging matter, energy, and information with the environment, man is capable of maintaining pattern and organization and proceeding toward increased growth. The concepts and principles of general systems theory can be utilized to develop models to aid the nurse in studying the real human situation. Although models are not perfect analogies, they do tend to help when working with complex systems such as the living system or the health care system.