The growing role of e-learning on sustainable growth: Applications to management education

Abstract

The schism between globalization and sustainable growth continues to widen. One strategy for helping ameliorate this chasm is the delivery of “Green-based” higher education. The inefficient use of fossil fuel energy in commuting to and from campus, coupled with the high-energy content associated with production and delivery of print books, suggests an expanded role for distance learning. More specifically, rising gas prices throughout most of 2008 has generated increased interest in using the Internet to support higher education. One specific strategy called blended learning combines the best features of the traditional classroom with the power of the Internet. Providing enhanced blended learning opportunities throughout higher education can contribute to the goal of achieving sustainable growth in a globalized economy. The purpose of this research is to explore how blended learning can serve as an important education vehicle to support sustainable growth on a worldwide basis.