This paper discusses measures that capture the impact of university technology transfer activities on a university?s local and regional economies (economic impact). Such assessments are of increasing interest to policy makers, researchers and technology transfer professionals, yet there have been few published discussions of the merits of various…

This paper presents the outcomes of a systematic review of the experience of the first cohorts using Ufi's online Learning through Work (LtW) facility to negotiate personalized programmes of study leading to full university awards based on projects related to their everyday work. The concept of learning through work and wider experience of online…

In a transition economy, Estonia is taking a systematic approach to research and development and technology transfer through two programs: a science park for incubation of small enterprises and a technical university innovation center. (SK)

An engineering design group in Australia collaborates with industry partners through a staged liaison model that includes short-term undergraduate projects and longer-term product design and development opportunities that may include training for industry clients. (Author/SK)

To develop productive links between industry and university, the style and ethos of networks focused on innovation are crucial. Cardiff University (Wales) has an innovation network that stimulates collaborative work and technology transfer through its informal open nature that encourages partnership. (SK)

Examines the impact of innovative entrepreneurship and the needs of developing and transitional economies. Outlines the operation of the European Commission's Business and Innovation Centres. Suggests that innovation must be viewed as a major issue in all enterprises and that greater recognition be given to the role of innovative small and…

Japanese science/technology policies emphasize creative research management for strengthening breakthrough innovation. Key lessons include the following: cultivation of creative researchers, clear strategic directions, systematic teamwork and collaboration, focus on strategic industrial relevance, balance between autonomy and control, and the need…

Outlines the state of economic transition in Hungary, the status of human resource development, economic and legal reforms, and the social partnership (education, business, government) in vocational training. (SK)

National Science Foundation projects, including over 70 Industry/University Cooperative Research Centers and over 25 Engineering Research Centers, attempt to overcome the incompleteness of the separate research sectors of government, universities, and industry. The concept of next-generation technologies bridges the short-term focus of industry…

The British Teaching Company Scheme (TCS) stimulates university-industry partnerships in innovative projects. The growing importance of small and medium-sized enterprises has necessitated some changes to help small businesses supervise interns, support multiple internships, manage projects, and disseminate innovations. (SK)

Foreign investors have developed enterprises in China largely with imported expertise. Chinese educational institutions have been criticized for failure to provide expertise for economic growth. Reforms in higher vocational education are needed to cope with the challenges of the future. (SK)