Approach to new technologies of Information and Communication for Higher Education: the Cultural paradigm

Abstract

Reed Midem who created the MIPCOM, the MIP TV world fair in the field of Multimedia, has organized the first world education market in Vancouver (Canada) in May 2000. More than 56 countries were represented. It is thought that education business will approach 90 billions of US dollars in 2005. In North America as well as in Australia Higher Education is now considered as one of the most important business for the new century and a number of universities, either public or private, are very active in this field. These universities try to extend their business not only in their traditional territory but also in other continents. The industry is also coming into this business, not only because they need permanent education for their own employees but also because the job market now requires more skills than diploma. Who would have thought a few years ago that CISCO, Microsoft, General Electrics and other major brands would deliver their own education and diploma? Is education becoming a business as others? What will become of universities? The new technologies are causing a big turmoil and universities will not go through without trouble.