Higher Education, Knowledge Economy, and Tourism Competitiveness in the APEC Area

Abstract

The chapter explores the relationship between tourism activity and the knowledge-based economy. To this purpose, a case study of the economies affiliated to the Asia-Pacific cooperation mechanism is examined. Documentary research techniques are applied on academic literature, institutional documents, and databases. Concepts on knowledge society and economy, tourism epistemology and system are reviewed. Indicators on knowledge management and competitiveness are consulted; as well as databases on the knowledge economy, investment in research and development, human capital, higher education coverage, and international travel statistics. The final part of the document analyzes the cases of three institutions of tertiary education dedicated to the superior academic training of qualified personnel for tourism industry. The findings include a relationship between investment in research, tourism competitiveness, and utilization of attractions, as well as some resistance of tourist organizations to adopt knowledge management systems.