Abstract:

The continuing merger of information and communication technologies (ICTs) with accessible online learning solutions and affordable internet devices is rapidly redefining geographic boundaries of education. Globalization affects education in all countries, shifts domestic and national security priorities, and increases the numbers of international students studying in countries where they are not permanent residents. With faster lifestyles, borderless learning is becoming more prevalent in all types of institutions. This paper uses comparative examples from Brazil, China, Ghana, Tanzania, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to show how online learning technologies are being applied at every level of instruction. As new technologies are applied and adopted, institutions must proceed cautiously in creating courses (both online and on campus) that respond to the educational needs of students rather than mere market factors. Delivering high quality education via the internet depends less on mode of instruction or institutional reputation than the commitment of individual administrators and instructors to understand and apply instructional technology.

Keywords:

Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), globalization, borderless education, instructional technology, virtual learning, online learning.