Action Science (1985) is the result of a collaborative project by Chris Argyris, Robert Putnam and Diana McLain Smith. The authors' main objective was to produce a body of knowledge that would bridge the concepts between theory and practice, thought and action and science and common sense (Argyris, Putnam, and McLain Smith, p.1). The authors' collective experience and expertise establishes them as credible, competent and well versed in the field of leadership. I am convinced that as a group of professionals they are uniquely qualified to comment on the concepts, methods, and skills for research and intervention.Embedded in the text of this work is a tremendous amount of information that is documented and supported by research and established theories. I believe the authors did achieve what they set out to do and ended with a useable, comprehensive, and valid body of knowledge. The information presented in the tables and figures offers clarity and visual reference for data that may otherwise be confusing and frustrating.
Argyris and Schon in Educating the Reflective Practioner (1974) state, "All human beings - not only professional practitioners - need to become competent in taking action and simultaneously reflecting on this action to learn from it." In the process of doing this review, I became engaged in an exercise of self-reflection. I began the task of defining my professional behavior and can sum up my experience by asking what is it that I am doing, why I am doing it, how am I doing it and what I could do different to grow and learn. Finally, I would like to highlight passages that caused me to reflect on my professional practice and development.
1.The concept of double loop learning makes sense and is something I am going to attempt to increase my awareness level.
2. The explanation of espoused theory versus theory-in use conveys a level of unawareness (on the part of most professionals) concerning what they do in contrast to what they think or say they do.
3.Barriers that inhibit our learning are self erected coping mechanisms that may serve a purpose but they are not strategies that will help us grow or learn professionally.
One assertion explored in the text is that by identifying the barriers that exist in our communities of inquiry we might be more prepared to overcome these barriers (Argyris et al. p.89). By defining our barriers we become better equipped to overcome these barriers. In reading Action Science I engaged in a professional exercise of reflective thought. On every page there is material, concepts and theories that are worthy of reflection. I found myself engaged in reflective thought and self-discovery throughout the reading of this text.

Terrific resource for baby boomers who will need to cope with the aging of their parent(s). The cassette is great for on-the-road listening; it only takes 1 1/2 hours of your time and will provide you with endless insights into a subject that may very well overtake your lifestyle. Priceless resource list

This is an excellent study of Beech (now Raytheon) aircraft, built by an old well established American manufacturer. Most of the aircraft are civilian trainers and corporate aircraft, the best known one today being the famous King Air.There is a small section dealing with other projects such as unmanned aircraft and target drones. The book also covers the life of Walter H. Beech, the founder of this company and his role in aviation in peace and in war. On the whole I liked this book and would recommend it even though general aviation is a less popular area than large commercial jets and military aviation for writers.

On November 25 2001 Margaret Rawson died at the age of 102. I'm privalged to have known her. At 101 her mind was as sharp as ever! She will be well remembered for her work dealing with dyslexia. She will be missed. God bless you, Mrs. Rawson!

Since discovering this indespensible resource on the desk of a coworker, I continually borrow it to use as a reliable sorce of information. If you've ever delt with anyone in the construction industry you know all the funny names they have for funnier looking tools and equipment. This book clearly defines and often illustrates these unusual items. It also provides useful information on common materials and grading systems(ie 2" X 4" is actually 1-1/2" X 3-1/2"). I use this book so much that I've decided to get a copy of my own. I'm sure my coworker will be very pleased.

Alternative Link is amazing. I have known about them for 8 years and watched them grow. They have taken the complexity of insurance coding and simplified it. And the best part is that they have developed codes for complementary and alternative medical practices. This hadn't been done.

The CAM and Nursing Coding Manual is an example of this work. It is simple, concise straight forward because it is based on the ABC codes. It is easy to read and not hard to follow. It is a must for healthcare providers particularly those who need an overview of the process. It is the future of CAM.

I highly recommend this book, for anyone who has read and admired something of James' work and who wants to know what some of the brightest minds of our own time have to say about it.

A warning, though, this is not a "popularization," a dilution, an "introduction to James," or the Cliff Notes version! You have to have read the real thing to appreciate the commentary. To put it differently, if you know some Jamesian texts, you will appreciate the way this book puts them into a CON-text.

I especially recommend chapter seven, by T.L.S. Sprigge, called "James, aboutness, and his British critics." Sprigge shows what is wrong with some common criticisms of Jamesian pragmatism, criticisms first posed by the two British critics mentioned in the chapter title, G.E. Moore and Bertrand Russell.

The fundamental empirical question of Political Science is 'Who rules?' and the normative counterpart to this question is 'Who should rule?' The purpose of Putnum's book is to address these questions through the lens of elite Theory. He sets out 'To summarize and assess our evolving understanding of those who rule.'

If your school or public library receives questions on sports issues and problems this is a great book for your collection. It also is good for the general reader interested in sports. There are 16 issues analyzed. The articles and books collected at the end of each chapter are a great source for further reference. Buy this book if you are a sports fan. It is a good investment.

As a long time visiter to the Owens Valley I found this book to be excellent. Its great for the first time traveler or the person who has been to the valley many times. Its section on side roads is good for those passing through the area and wanting to explore a bit. The history and geology areas are current and answer those questions that arise when encountering the vast numbers of different geological features. While no one guide does it all this book comes close. A great book for those who want a general guide to the valley, its history,geology,flora and fauna.