Solar photovoltaic cells have been called the ultimate energy technology, environmentally benign and without moving parts, solar cells directly convert sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic energy conversion is fundamentally different from all other forms of electricity generation. Without turbines, generators or other mechanical equipment, it…

Describes the following aspects of the National Association of Industrial Technology: purpose, objectives, membership, historical development, administrative organization, structure, and future directions. (SK)

Describes Japan's industrial development and science/technology policy. Topics include policies for promoting industries, rationalization policy for industry, catching up with advanced technology, progression from imitation to creative technology, Japan's advantages in technological development, and problems faced by developing countries today.…

Based upon the findings of a National Science Foundation (NSF) survey of 1980 Industrial Research and Development, this report presents highlights and summaries of statistical data for: (1) total research and development (R&D) funds for 1980; (2) R&D by source of funds; (3) R&D funds as a percent of net sales; (4) energy-related…

Describes the basic features of three different models of "innovation policy": (1) a model of explicit and institutionalized policy in Europe; (2) one of apparently limited policy affecting mainly the climate of innovation in the United States; and (3) one of implicit action imbedded in other policies in Japan. (Author/JN)

Discusses plans to develop and naturalize its scientific and technological capabilities. Areas in which Mexico's National Council of Science and Technology selected to focus a national development program include: scholarships for middle-/high-level researchers/technicians; programs to support research and basic/new industries; government-industry…

Suggests that governments, employers, and trade unions develop structural employment policies that, in conjunction with appropriate macro-economic policies, might lead to a more acceptable labor market outlook for the years ahead. Flexibility of the labor market, dimensions of change, and changing industrial structures are addressed. (JN)

This report examines the impact of the Soviet Academy of Sciences on the development of technology in the Soviet Union, finding that the future of Soviet technology depends significantly on the Academy and that severe problems stemming from its nature and its relationship with Soviet industry encumber the Academy's ability to serve Soviet…

The author introduces a simple three-step formula for teaching safety awareness in technology education classes and in industry. The steps are (1) understand the hazard, (2) recognize the defense, and (3) act in time. (CH)

Various issues related to the interface between the natural sciences and the society they serve are addressed. These include direction of British research and development, problems in the business environment preventing the successful use of science, quality of management in successful use of science, and others. (JN)

Presents the salient characteristics of science and technology activities in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development area and indicates the main similarities and differences between member countries. Includes data on: trends in research and development (R & D) spending; university research; R & D in industry; and other…

Cites the need for promoting science/technology management and policy formation in Thailand, viewing contributions of science/technology to the socioeconomic development of the country as high priorities. Criteria for selecting priority areas and key problems are noted; they include relevance to development, availability of human resources, and…

Highlights a National Academy of Engineering symposium ("The Long-Term Impact of Technology on Employment and Unemployment"). The symposium is the start of a study of radical effects of the computer revolution on jobs and on economic, social, and cultural systems. Includes comments from participants; several key questions discussed. (JN)

Mechanization of mining is explained in terms of its effect on the mining of coal, focusing on, among others, types of mining, productivity, machinery, benefits to retired miners, fatality rate in underground coal mines, and output of U.S. mining industry. (Author/JN)

Many proposals have been made for new universities in U.S. research and development (R&D) systems. However, current foundations and strengths should be examined before attempting untried approaches. Areas addressed include the supporting environment, university research system, industrial R&D capability, defense-related R&D, and…