This is particularly true in the newly emerging Eastern European countries where previous communication suppliers were sparse or non-existent. In these situations the newer cellular radio technologies, which can handle a greater number of users than previous fixed link networks, may provide the answer . Such mobile technologies can be put in place with less cost than wired networks and, in addition, occupy a very small spectrum of the radio frequencies. Although the future of new technological developments promises increased accessibility to information at low cost, this access is not without its own pitfalls.
Economic power remains largely within the hands of developed countries.
From an economic point of view, some disadvantages include the selection of a costly technological solution when a simpler and existing technology might suffice. Technology which must be used over long physical distances with primitive and unreliable electricity and telephone services is not in the best interest of the developing country. The most important consideration for the majority of developing countries is economic independence. It is in many of the economically developing countries that the largest distance learning projects are undertaken. A top educational priority for many such countries is to improve the cost effectiveness of education and to provide training and jobs for the general population.