Addresses the relatively recent increase in Japan in expenditures for research and development (R&D) and the education of a large pool of doctorate-level engineers capable of performing more fundamental research. Compares the differences in Japanese and American R&D funding, university research budgets, and university-industry linkages.…

Expresses concern for the development of graduate education programs in technological fields in Japan. Compares and contrasts the educational systems of Japan and the United States. Claims that graduate education in Japan has not absorbed the flexibility and open structure of American education. (TW)

Discusses the National Science Foundation's program to establish Engineering Research Centers (ERCs). States that this effort has provided a new impetus to interdisciplinary research efforts on university campuses. Claims that the concept of bringing together industry, academia, and government is necessary in addressing engineering research and…

This article emphasizes the importance of K-12 education in a technically literal society. Cites several major studies in a discussion of the reasons for the apparent unpreparedness of K-12 teachers to teach mathematics and science. Makes recommendations as to how engineering colleges can help to improve K-12 teachers' technical abilities. (CW)