Technology Policy and Industrial Modernization
About the Course
Overview
This course focuses on issues of technology policy and industrial modernization for small and mid-sized manufacturers. The course explores frameworks for understanding the dynamics of innovation and technological development among small and mid-sized manufacturers and the interactions of these firms with industrial, technological, and regional systems. We will examine rationales for policy intervention, through industrial extension and similar programs, and explore the policy development, operation, and best practices of industrial modernization programs in the United States and other countries. The course will assess the performance of these policies and programs and consider how industrial modernization should develop in the future.
Logistics
This course is a special networked learning course that will combine three modes of teaching: (1) in-class "physical" lectures; (2) in-class "telebroadcasting" – via ISDN link from the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovations Research, Karlsruhe, Germany, and possibly other locations; and (3) asynchronous multi-media modules, accessible via the Internet or CD-Rom.
For modules offered through in-class lectures and telebroadcasting, class meetings will be held in Room ESM209 (Engineering, Science and Mechanics Building, Cherry Street), 9.30 am – 11.00 am Eastern Standard Time (15.30-17.00 CET) on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
For modules offered through the Internet, there will be no class meeting. Students will take these modules independently, at any time during the given week.
Link with Northwest Seminar, University of Business and Economics, Vienna
The course is offered in collaboration with the Northwest Seminar of the University of Business and Economics, Vienna, Austria, offered by Professor Ed Bergman. We will seek to share course materials and resources and conduct some interactive joint sessions. Opportunities for students to focus papers on similar themes will also be explored. [See Northwest seminar; class list]