In a global society and economy, education and training is essential to a nation's competitiveness and to the standard of living of its people. The need to open the doors of higher or further education beyond the relatively limited enrollments in elite and selective universities has spawned a movement to develop or expand institutions that are less expensive, accessible, flexible, and tied to business and industry. This book describes the systems that have developed in over 20 countries to meet these needs, covering the historical development of the systems, as well as how they are addressing national mandates for preparing the workforce for the challenges of the global economy. Countries highlighted in this book include: Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Denmark, Dominican Republic, England, French West Africa, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam. [Individual chapters contain references.]