E-Learning for Development in a Developing Context: Reflections on the Impact of Globalisation on Higher Education in the Caribbean

Globalisation has become a much debated topic in academia as well as a buzz word in discussions on development. Within developing countries, however, it is recognised that the influence of the richer, more developed countries impacts on our social and economic lives. As we in the developed world strive to establish our identities through education and other means, we are constantly faced with new forms of colonialism and social exclusion, which emerge in various subtle ways. In higher education, in particular, with the emergence of online learning or e-learning, there is a real danger of exclusion. This descriptive, qualitative paper is an examination of the concept of globalisation and the rise of e-learning in a developed country setting, as an option to increase higher education offerings. My experiences as a member of staff of one Caribbean institution, the University of the West Indies, will be discussed in an effort to reflect on the implications of e-learning for development in the region