Trends in funding rates, funding sources, priorities, and public policy for research in Irish universities since 1981 are examined. A revised mechanism to provide more balanced policy, strategy, and funding is recommended. (MSE)

Changes in Australia's university research funding, with both indirect and a substantial portion of direct funding administered centrally by the new Ministry of Employment, Education and Training, are discussed. The new arrangement is intended to ensure university research gives greater priority to projects contributing to national social and…

In the late 1980s, Norwegian higher education has been characterized by increasing political interest, focus on universities and long-term research-oriented education, a growing student population, and a market orientation. Growing unemployment is also a factor. Despite opposition to Norway's joining the European Economic Community, integration at…

The Danish government has awarded more direct control over funding of basic research to a higher education agency of the ministry of education, representing a step toward increasing both the quantity and quality of graduating scientists. However, new problems have arisen from this shift in policy. (MSE)

Canada's policy of increasing support for university research on the condition that the private sector also contribute, and the policy's results, are discussed. Trends in the awarding of federal grants and the national priorities in research directions are outlined. (MSE)

The average rate for research overhead charges at major universities has declined nearly a point to 51% in the last three years, in the wake of stricter federal rules and intense political pressure. Largest reductions are at private institutions with the highest rates. (MSE)

A British national study of the university research enterprise in 1995-96 assessed the impact of a 1992 change in higher education policy to restructure the entire higher education system. The study investigated impact at the system, institution, unit, and individual levels, in the areas of research policy and strategy, structures, and processes.…

It is suggested that, in the Netherlands' system of resource allocation for research, there is subtle and powerful pressure for consensus. Changes in science policy orientation since the 1960s are traced, and the current framework for policy formation, planning, and decision making is sketched. Three peer review models are examined. (MSE)

The report summarizes a conference on the state of British higher education which took place closely following publication of the Dearing Report (Summer 1997) on the role of colleges and universities in labor force and economic development. An introductory section gives an overview of enrollment trends, the funding system, public policy concerning…

Interview with higher education leader Clark Kerr focuses on changes and trends in the profession. Topics discussed include changes in the college presidency; the president's professional role and responsibility to himself; Carnegie Commission on Higher Education; federal research policy; faculty mobility; the future of universities and community…