The management of knowledge: A systems theory approach for vocational education and training

This paper contends that VET providers are in the industry of knowledge management. A model to manage the knowledge assets in an organisation is proposed based on systems theory. The model examines the role of the two basic systems in an organisation – the legitimate system and the shadow system – and how each system has unique responsibilities for managing knowledge in an organisation. The paper suggests that VET providers need to know their point of entry into a client’s management knowledge systems and, further, need to be very aware of how they manage their own knowledge capital.