Cognitive map as representation of knowledge structure

Abstract

Tacit knowledge management requires a special approach because of the complexity of verbalization, explanation and formalization. The purpose of the article is to substantiate the approach to the tacit knowledge management, which allows integrating concepts from different fields of knowledge on the basis of systems methodology. Problems and tasks of tacit knowledge management are considered in the context of social interaction of individuals. This raises the problem of mutual understanding and communication barriers. The challenge of understanding depends on the quality of knowledge, the way knowledge is presented and the coherence of knowledge among themselves. An interdisciplinary approach based on systems methodology and soft systems thinking is proposed. The structuring of knowledge occurs through the construction of a collective cognitive map, which is a conceptual systems model of knowledge of a group of individuals. The elements of the model are ideas, assumptions, judgments, opinions of individuals, and the process of construction is considered as a way of organizing social interaction, which is based on the formation of a shared understanding. Priority directions of further research include the development of methods of analysis, verification and evaluation of the credibility of models based on collective cognitive maps.