Overall, the literacy rate in Denmark is extremely high and the labor force is generally well-educated. Among a population of 5.2 million, approximately one million children and adolescents are receiving education. Schooling commences at the age of 7 and there are 9 years of compulsory education, while both attendance and the literacy rate are both 100% (U.S. Department of State, Background Notes: March 1997). Of 943,083 receiving education, 626,205 were in public and secondary schools, 166,871 were undergoing vocational education in schools for business, maritime studies, etc., and 150,007 were in tertiary educational institutions such as universities, of which Denmark has five. Denmark's educational system provides children and teenagers with the chance to develop curiosity, independence and initiative--characteristics that are incredibly important in the use of IT (Information Society 2000). As shown below, the Danes are relatively competitive in terms of school life expectancy, as measured in years, (UNESCO Statistics):

However, it should be noted that the amount of public spending on education, as measured by percentage of GDP, decreased from 3.2% in 1980 to 1.4% in 1992 (World Development Indicators, 1997). The same trend holds true with the United States, as the public spending on education decreased from 2.5% in 1980 to 1.9% in 1992. With regard to total public expenditure, 13% of the public finances was allocated to education and research (Denmark in Figures).

Included in the 5 traditional universities and number of institutions offering a specialized university level education are the Technical University of Denmark, the royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, and the Business Schools. In all, there are over 17 university-level institutions in Denmark, which offer a wide range of study programs leading to Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Upon completion of a Master's degree courses, graduates may pursue their studies for the Doctoral degree. Further, these universities and other institutions of higher education enjoy comprehensive autonomy, in that the professors, students and technical and administrative staff occupy the seats in the governing board of the institutions. Girls and women comprise close to half of those receiving education and more than half of those in secondary schools and higher preparatory education (Denmark in Figures).

The Danish labor force, estimated to be approximately 2.5 million, is distributed by occupation as follows: private services, 37.1%; government services, 30.4%; manufacturing and mining, 20%; construction, 6.3%; agriculture, forestry, and fishing, 5.6%; and electricity/gas/water, 0.6% (CIA World Fact Book). There is widespread user's knowledge about information technology--85% of all office employees use a computer at work, compared to an average of 55 percent in the EU countries. Further, of the European countries, Denmark ranks first in percentage of IT work places connected to Local Area Networks (LAN), as shown in table 1.

The number of scientists and engineers in research and development is approximately 2,341 per million people, while the number of technicians in research and development is 2,663 per one million people. Compare such numbers, respectively, to the following other countries (UNESCO Statistics):

Although the Danes have progressed rapidly with the use of information technology both at work and at home, the school system in Denmark leaves much to be desired. This has most recently become apparent in relation with the debate on the new legislation on Primary and Lower Secondary Schools, where it has now been decided that the computer and information technology must become integral parts of teaching. However, much like other information economies, many teachers lack the necessary experience in the use of modern computers, and there is insufficient training of those teachers with regard to information technology. It should be noted that this problem is not unique to Denmark, and with the appropriate allocation of resources, Denmark still has potential to secure a competitive position in this area in the upcoming years.

The major trade magazines in the area of applications software are PC World and ComputerWorld. Major associations and organizations include the following (USDOC, International Trade Administration):

• The Danish Chamber of Commerce
• Public Sector Procurement Agency
• Kontor and Data

Danish government officials recognize both the importance and potential of education with regard to information technology. More specifically, as outlined in "Technology-Supported Learning (Distance Learning)," the following objectives are being implemented with the aim of extending technology-supported learning provisions in Denmark:

• All interested parties within and outside the public education system should have the opportunity of participating actively in the development of technology-supported learning provisions, including provisions leading to formal educational qualifications.
• An in-service continuing training program should be initiated for both teachers and administrative staff who are to take part in the organization and implementation of technology-supported learning.
• Funds should be earmarked from public building and equipment appropriations for full or partial grants for the purchase of equipment for technology-supported learning.
• A joint national data network should be used which institutions can join for a limited period of time free of charge, and which provides a series of specific services, including the operation of a conference system or other kinds of electronic systems which facilitate network cooperation among several users.
• Legislation pertaining to radio and television should allow for the use of the public broadcasting network for the transmission of educational programs and data.
• A national service center for the development of technology-supported learning should be established.
• Partial or total funding should be made available for the adaptation of a number of traditional courses to include technology-based learning.

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