Although the National Open University of Taiwan (NOU) and Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK) both opened in the 1980s in environments of rapid economic growth and political stability, the NOU reflects traditional Chinese values whereas the OUHK merges Chinese and Western beliefs. Categorized as a "supplemental" school, the NOU occupies a somewhat marginal position in Taiwan's educational system. Although it boasts a computer center and distance learning, the NOU lacks the more advanced distance education technology available at Taiwan's traditional universities. Unlike their counterparts at Taiwan's traditional universities, NOU graduates do not generally change careers after graduation. Of the NOU's student body, 25% are public officials, 25% are businesspersons, and women outnumber men 60% to 40%. At the OUHK, on the other hand, the main priority is advancing individual and national economic goals, and contributions from the private sector and collaboration with business and industry for onsite training are emphasized. Of the OUHK's graduates in 1998, 58% were managerial or professional workers and 60% were men. The most popular areas of study at the OUHK are computing, business administration, and primary education. Using the latest information technology to deliver instruction is a priority at the OUHK. (Contains 29 endnotes.) (MN)