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The effects of human capital composition on technological convergence

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  • Ang, James B.
  • Madsen, Jakob B.
  • Rabiul Islam, Md.

Abstract

This paper empirically investigates whether the contribution of human capital to productivity growth depends on the composition of human capital and proximity to the technology frontier in a panel of 87 sample countries over the period 1970-2004. It tests the hypothesis that primary and secondary education is more suitable for imitation whereas tertiary education is more appropriate for innovation. The results show that the growth enhancing effects of higher education increase with proximity to the technology frontier only for high and medium income countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Ang, James B. & Madsen, Jakob B. & Rabiul Islam, Md., 2011. "The effects of human capital composition on technological convergence," Journal of Macroeconomics, Elsevier, vol. 33(3), pages 465-476, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jmacro:v:33:y:2011:i:3:p:465-476
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