Two things are required to bridge the technology gap between rich and poor countries that has resulted from the scientific and technological revolution: (1) a national development strategy that places a high priority on studies of global technological strategies for each sector of the economy; and (2) very high level educational institutions equipped to create scientists, engineers, and technologists with the creative capacity to adapt, improve, and innovate and the social conscience to evaluate technology's effects beyond its pure economic benefits. Available statistics on the funding of research and development in developed and developing countries throughout the world confirm the importance of establishing mechanisms to promote common social interests in research and education financing. Enabling developing countries to bridge the technology gap requires the establishment of new relationships among research, technological development, and high-level human resources training. Educational, science, and technology policies must be bound strategically to economic and social development plans. Research and teaching centers alike have critical roles to play in translating fundamental research results into improvements in industrial production that will in turn improve individuals' social welfare. Technology must be understood not simply as "applied science" but as "the science of productive work." (Contains 27 references.) (MN)