OLISTICA will pursue the same methodological principles of MISTICA, which is based on setting up the conditions for a process-oriented project in order to maximize the involvement of the participants in the virtual community. This process is implemented via an integrated set of information and communication tools which are layered in concentric spheres starting from the project management to the external world (Fig 1). Ethical and gender considerations are an integral part of the holistic process which is targeted.

The drawing  (Fig 1) intends to illustrate a ball bearing system to express the sensation of a fluid transmission of communication and information (C & I) between the layers, conducing to a controlled but creative behavior. Each one of the dark circles between to balls represents an area of C & I having its own requirements, specific to the interface between the two adjacent spheres of responsibility.

Being an action-research on-going process, OLISTICA will articulate between content and methodological objectives in order to take full advantage of actual and potential synergies in the action-research network.

Ethical considerations of this project are intimately linked to the relationship existing amongst the participants and associated communication resources to create a structuring scheme, at an institution as well as a personal scale; the become formalized based on the behavior criterion established for participation. These criteria intend to establish a collective work style, based on collaboration, solidarity, respect for diversity and equality of gender. Therefore, ethics, responsibility and commitment are fundamental principles.

Gender and ethical considerations