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The signal flow graph theory approach to goal programming: Design and implementation of a pedagogic system
Abstract
A fundamental problem of management science implementation through decision support systems has been the lack of users' understanding of the management science techniques involved. Thus, in management science education, it is important to ascertain and improve students' comprehension and understanding of the management science techniques. Under current goal programming (GP) education practices, students do not understand the concept of GP properly because the modified simplex method involves difficult mathematics. This induces the students to try to memorize the solution procedures (rules and formulas) instead of understanding the underlying concept. To overcome students' formula dependency, the Signal Flow Graph (SFG) method of GP which emphasizes the user's understanding of the GP concept was introduced. In order to investigate the effect of the signal flow graph method of GP on students' learning, this research involved development of an effective tool for measuring GP knowledge. Using this new measuring device, it was confirmed that students who learn the SFG method understand GP much better than students who learn the modified simplex method. The students who learned the SFG method of GP were less dependent on rules or formulas than the students who learned the modified simplex method. These students understood the SFG method of GP much more easily and clearly than they did the modified simplex method. The priority concept is the most difficult concept for the undergraduate student. To help students understand the signal flow graph method more easily, an effective educational software package using the signal flow graph method of GP was developed. This software, SFGP (Signal Flow graph method of Goal Programming), explains the procedure and analysis of GP solution through graphics which allow the user to easily follow each solution step.
Subject Area
Management
Recommended Citation
Kim, Eyong Beom, "The signal flow graph theory approach to goal programming: Design and implementation of a pedagogic system" (1990). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9030131.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9030131