Knowledge economy, e-learning and higher education in APEC countries

Abstract

This paper explores the interrelationship of the rapidly growing global Knowledge Economy with the economic gap between developed and developing APEC economies. Given the emergence of global competition between public and private enterprises and the role of government, addressing issues of access to higher education on both sides of the economic divide and accelerating development of Information and Computer Technologies and E-Learning Networks is crucial. The paper identifies the functions of key bodies such as educational and research institutions, private enterprise and governments in the establishment of regional and global E-Learning Networks. It is argued that in order to succeed in fostering economic growth, developing APEC economies need to shift from efficiency driven Economies of Scale to effectiveness governed Economies of Scope. The paper concludes with a range of broad strategies for narrowing the Knowledge Economy gap between developed and developing countries, through focussing attention on E-Learning Networks.