Publication Type
Journal Article
Version
publishedVersion
Publication Date
8-2024
Abstract
PurposeThe purpose of this article is to discuss the “learning nation” concept and examine the characteristics and implications of using the “learning” premodifier in this nation-building program.Design/methodology/approachThis article reviews how the “learning” aspect is inter-related to a series of national information and communication technology masterplans and includes a comparative analysis of the related premodifier “smart” as Singapore sets forth its ambition to become a “smart nation” as part of the digitalization megatrend. A print media indicator and Google Trends form part of the methodology to ascertain the rise of digital technology over a certain period. The former technique involves identifying relevant bibliographic databases and analyzing the volume of publications. The latter technique is a real time index of the volume of queries that users input into Google.FindingsIt is suggested that using the term “learning nation” previously and more recently “smart nation” is a consequence of the rise of the digitalization megatrend. The “smart-ness” involves learning about digital technologies, developing digital competencies and harnessing the benefits of these digital capabilities. From a public policy perspective, the article showcases how a city-state can transform itself through technology by riding on megatrends. Also, there is a need to be selective in developing specific areas for the application of digital technologies.Originality/valueThis article contributes to a better understanding on the frequent usage of the word “learning” as a premodifier and Singapore’s nation-building journey through human capital development and digitalization.
Keywords
electronic commerce, digital business, internet economics, digital economics
Discipline
Asian Studies | Digital Communications and Networking
Research Areas
Information Systems and Management
Areas of Excellence
Digital transformation
Publication
Journal of Electronic Business & Digital Economics
First Page
1
Last Page
15
ISSN
2754-4214
Identifier
10.1108/JEBDE-05-2024-0013
Publisher
Emerald
Citation
1
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Additional URL
https://doi.org/10.1108/JEBDE-05-2024-0013
