Open system of distance learning: soft system approach to information system analysis

Abstract

One of the more important factors of human civilisation is proper organisation of education system. The system-based approach allows to interpret the open and distance learning phenomenon as a complex information system. The authors perform a soft system analysis based on the theory of hierarchical multilevel systems, which allows developing a model of the open system of distance learning. The proposed model plays a role of a meta information system for knowledge management for open and distance learning. As a conclusion of the analysis hierarchical structure and functional scheme of open system of distance learning are proposed.