Organizing technical and vocational education and training moderation: Research, development, and innovation investment impact on GDP

Abstract

This study examines the intricate relationship between investment in research, development, and innovation (RDI) and a nation’s gross domestic product (GDP), with a specific focus on understanding how technical and vocational education and training (TVET) performance moderates this association. Utilizing panel data analysis, the research investigates the direct and interactive effects of RDI expenditure and TVET performance on GDP across various national contexts. While the direct impact of RDI on GDP is not statistically significant, the findings illuminate a moderated relationship wherein TVET performance serves as the interaction coefficient. Notably, countries with improved TVET performance demonstrate a significant positive correlation between RDI expenditure and GDP, highlighting the pivotal role of TVET in enhancing the effectiveness of RDI investment for economic progress. This investigation contributes to a deeper understanding of the nuanced interplay among education, innovation, and economic growth, emphasizing the strategic importance of TVET in reinforcing the efficacy of RDI policies for fostering economic advancement. By shedding light on these dynamics, the study provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers aiming to design evidence-based strategies for sustainable economic development (Smith & Brown, 2020).