This document concerns the operation and evaluation of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Engineering Research Center (ERC) program. Included with a general letter addressing the operation of the program are several appendices which attempt to answer the questions put forth in the letter. These appendices include considerations of: (1)…

A discussion of the emergence of science parks as an option for university-industry cooperation focuses on the university's role and the need for careful planning of the university's involvement. (Author/MSE)

Describes personal experiences with university research and development. Criticizes university research as ineffective and inwardly focused, resulting in a concept of scientific research that negates the notion of economic development. Complains that the focus of study no longer contributes to an increase in consumable wealth. Urges that…

The National Science Foundation's effort to assess ways to improve the speed and accuracy of data collection from universities by federal agencies is discussed. Although only one phase of the project was completed, it is concluded that the issues surrounding electronic data collection have important implications for university research…

The principles underlying research and development centers or parks are reviewed, the history and current status of such undertakings in Europe are described, and the university perspective on participation in them is discussed. (Author/MSE)

A discussion of the university's part in giving planning help to new companies in a research and development park emphasizes the importance of regional planning and examines the German experience. (Author/MSE)

Application of a multidimensional measure of university research activity, the Research Activity Index (RAI), is described and compared to the more common use of research and development expenditures as a criterion of activity. The RAI incorporates seven expenditure variables, three graduate-student-related variables, and a research library…

A small service firm approach to assist instructors and departments improve the quality of instruction at the University of Washington is discussed. Attention is directed to basic assumptions underlying the instructional development program at the University's Center for Instructional Development and Research (CIDR). One assumption is that an…

The commercialization of university research and the growing importance of technology transfer is examined through discussing and comparing the history of technology transfer and its organization in four major American research universities: University of California, Berkley; Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Stanford University; and…

The development of the Grenoble-Meylan (France) science park is described, highlighting the process by which the need for careful and coordinated planning was needed. (Author/MSE)

The role of an economic development agency in promoting networking and communication among high-tech industries in one region of the Netherlands is described. (Author/MSE)

Two types of Canadian institutions (university-related research parks and Ontario's "centers of excellence") charged with fostering technology innovation and facilitating technology transfer between university and industry are described and compared. It is concluded that despite limitations, both play a positive role in enhancing…

Small increases in research and development funding and the state of the economy pose serious challenges to research universities. It is unlikely that the financial pressures will moderate. Research universities will be challenged to downsize by restructuring resources without compromising their quality. (Author/MSE)

This study examined the characteristics of those universities from which scientists, working in private industry, procure research information. It assessed these characteristics with respect to institutional size, quality, institutional type, geographic location, and the presence of cooperative research structures. The study involved a citation…

The strategies used by British universities to raise the capital necessary for the launching and development of science parks are outlined, and important considerations in undertaking such a venture are discussed. (Author/MSE)