The Probable Effect of Closer University/Industry Relations

Abstract

A research programme was devised in order to examine the relationship between the universities and industry. It was hoped to indicate possible areas for improving existing relationships and to suggest new ways of achieving greater collaborative efforts. A brief examination is made of the involvement which occurred between industry and the evolving educational system during the nineteenth century, and the reasons for the pressures which led to the changes in the educational system and the desire to involve science and technology in the industrial progress of the new century. In order to obtain information which might be of value when suggesting ways of achieving a greater degree of collaboration between universities and industry, the Research Association scheme is examined, and some of the problems which Research Associations have in their relations with industry are discussed. Resulting from interviews with industrialists of the West Midlands, and members of the staff of the University of Aston, the feasibility and desirability of closer collaboration between industry and the universities are examined and discussed. Based upon the comments made by the industrialists of the West Midlands and members of the staff of the University of Aston, ways of achieving greater collaboration are indicated. An alternative suggestion is made whereby it might be possible to utilize all of the scientific and technological expertise available within an area such as the West Midlands. The suggestions made by those interviewed have indicated that the probable effect of closer university/industry relations would be:- 1. A more effective use of the available scientific and technological expertise. 2. A possible increase in the economic development of the West Midlands. 3. A greater involvement of middle-line university staff, with possible benefit to the undergraduate and the curriculum content.