Learning and Knowledge for the Network Society

Learning and Knowledge for the Network Society discusses technology, policy, and manage­ment in a context much influenced by a dynamic of change and a necessary balance between the creation and diffusion of knowledge. It is largely grounded on empirical experiences of different regional and national contexts and addresses the dynamics of the process of knowledge accumulation, which drives a learning society. This fact is reflected in the trend in developed economies towards an increasing investment in advanced technology, research and development, education, and culture, but also in the process of inclusive development, which should be considered for less-developed countries. Concepts such as learning ability, creativity, and sustained flexibility gain greater importance as guiding principles for the conduct of individuals, institutions, nations, and regions. It is thus legitimate to question the traditional way of viewing the role that contemporary institutions play in the process of economic development and to argue for the need to promote systems of innovation and competence building based on learning and knowledge networks.

David V. Gibson is Co-Chair of the International Conference on Technology Policy and Innovation and Program Vice-Chairman for the World Conference on Integrated Design and Process Technology.

Manuel V. Heitor is the former Director of the Center for Innovation, Technology and Policy Research, IN+. He has co-edited several books and authored several scientific papers. Currently, his interests include the management of technology and the development of engineering and innovation policies, including higher education policies. In this context, he has led the organizing committee in a series of international conferences on "Technology Policy and Innovation," which began in 1997 in Macau. He is also on the editorial board of Technological Forecasting and Social Change and has published several papers in international refereed journals, including Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Technovation, Higher Education Policy and Science and Public Policy.

Alejandro Ibarra-Yunez is a professor of Economics and Public Policy at Instituto Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM), Mexico.