by Paul Nichols and Charles DePascale, 
describes the design of a computer “System 
for Learning” simulation designed to model 
a four-part system to improve student 
learning. They begin by offering 
background on educational systems as 
described by other scholars, each of which 
emphasized different elements of their 
individual systems. They then review 
briefly the elements of systems thinking and 
system development, and proceed to outline 
and explain the elements of their own 
model. They suggest a three-dimensional 
diamond as their framework – with a Theory 
of Learning at the apex, and the other 4 
points of the diamond being curriculum, 
assessment, instruction, and professional 
development. They further break down 
assessment into classroom, interim, and 
large scale assessments. They don’t offer 
details or specifics of how to operationalize 
their four elements – they don’t suggest a 
specific Theory of Learning,