The emerging field of nanotechnology has created a new frontier for the convergence of university and industrial research. In the United States, major federal investments provided a massive boom for this field over the decade. This paper reports on a case study of how the University at Albany came to establish the first college of nanotechnology…

Australian governments in recent years have invested substantially in innovation and research commercialisation with the aim of enhancing international economic competitiveness, making research findings more readily available to research users, and supporting economic and social development. Although there have been a number of evaluations of…

The problem of transferring university "technology" to industry must be addressed in highly specific terms if satisfactory and conclusive results are to be expected. It is the general purpose of this conference report to identify major obstacles and to explore successful means for reducing or eliminating them. The conference was planned…

The evolutionary character and complexity of technological development is discussed, focusing on the steam engine and computer as examples. Additional topics include characteristics of science/technology, cultural factors in technological development, technology transfer, and problems in technological organization. (JN)

Comments on how communications technology has evolved over the last century, resulting in the digital revolution. Discusses the relationship between information technology and societal factors that impact on higher education and health care. (DDR)

Since 1996, the Small and Medium Enterprise Administration (SMEA) in Taiwan has supported various institutions to establish incubation centers (ICs) for facilitating start-ups and innovation. At present, there are 79 ICs in total and 65 (or 83%) of them are established in universities/colleges. Most ICs in the universities/colleges offering…

United States scientists are being pressured by the government to cut back on scientific exchanges with the Soviet Union for both "natural security" and political reasons. Various aspects of the issue are discussed, suggesting that science itself will be the big loser in the government's shift of attitude toward science communication.…

Discusses the enhancement of economic leadership by improving workers' skills, supporting research and development and encouraging investment that applies to technological innovations. Suggests a relationship between national rates of capital investment and increases in productivity and economic growth. (RT)

Presents a summary of recent ideas in the area of industrial innovation. Analyzes varying viewpoints on models of the processes of innovation and poses questions for future study, research, and policy formation. (ML)

A 45-year-old research project (culminating in the multivolume "Science and Civilization in China") is examining major scientific innovations in ancient China and attempting to explain why, although the Chinese gained a technological edge in the past, they did not make the forward leap into modern science. (JN)

Since facilities and technology are useless without trained people, policies that address manpower training must be an integral part of a plan for the use of science and technology in national development. Presented is an overview of labor force requirements, educational needs, and other considerations related to industrial and agricultural…

Discusses technological advancement in Japan (including financial tools) and America's response to meet the Japanese high-technology challenge. This response includes university programs to learn about Japan/Japanese, cooperative agreements with Japanese universities, and programs to send U.S. graduate students to work in Japanese companies. (JN)

This report reviews a joint attempt of the United States Forest Service and the Naval Service to enhance the utilization of research results and the new technologies through improved effectiveness of technology transfer efforts. It consists of an introduction by J. W. Creighton and seven papers: (1) "Management for Change" by P. A.…

Examines the evolution of twentieth century civilization from the period of "technological determinism" to the period of "technological choice." Discusses how society's level of questioning and quality of dialog has led to an examination of the scientific and philosophical assumptions of contemporary industrial life in the United States and…

Introduces the Technology and Development Program (TDP) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) that helps outside organizations with resources and knowledge in the area of science, technology, and development. Describes a program example including background, objectives, and activities. Lists nine reasons for the program's success. (YP)