The implementation of an Open Learning System (OLS) would do much to resolve existing educational problems. The OLS is based upon the belief that learning and life are synonomous and that what is needed is not a system to teach but a system which allows people to learn by bringing them into contact with learning resources. Such a system is learning; in addition, its goals are derived from individual needs and its resources are provided to meet such needs. These resources are of six major varities: people, equipment, materials, facilities activities and evaluation. Computers would be essential to the system's operation since they could best manage the large quantities of data pertaining to learners, resources, administration, evaluation, finances and research and development. It would be highly difficult to implement such a system in an existing environment but it would be feasible to develop an OLS in a new community, provided Federal or state support was attracted. (PB)