Year: 2009
Type: report
Abstract: Aim and ScopeThis project seeks to integrate the existing academic and practitioner literature on the current perceived continuing professional development (CPD) needs of Knowledge Transfer Professionals, all individuals who engage in Knowledge Transfer during the course of their role in Higher Education Institutes.Using this integrated synopsis as a basis for investigation, a regional e-survey to assess the current training and development needs of Knowledge Transfer Professionals within the West Midlands Region will be conducted.Utilisation and awareness of current provisions, preferred support mechanisms, and ideal platforms for learning will also be identified at this time.Subsequent to this, a review will be carried out on the current provision of training and development provisions within the West Midlands Region.This data will inform a gap-analysis of the extent to which these needs and preferences are addressed in the current provision, and identify potential gaps in provision to meet these previously identified needs.The research then focuses specifically on one aspect of the needs of Knowledge Transfer professionals, namely, the ability to motivate academics to engage in knowledge transfer activities.Through engagement in primary research the project seeks to elicit examples of best practice using a case study methodology.The aim of these exemplars of best practice is to provide real-life, revelatory examples of Knowledge Transfer activity aimed at increasing academic engagement with such activities.The stories are collected, not in response to structured interview questions about practices and procedures; or barriers and challenges, but as told by them with a view to accentuating the positive aspects of KT and promoting enthusiasm.We suggest that hearing stories such as these is an optimal way to generate curiosity in like-minded individuals as well as to support and promote those who are already engaging in these activities.Finally, the project will conclude by making recommendations for any new training and development activities, or enhancements to existing provisions, in order to meet these identified needs.Recommendations will also be made in respect of the recruitment, retention and strategic management of KT activity within the West Midlands Region.
Authors: Jan Francis‐Smythe, Ann Bicknell, Jane Arthur
Language: English
Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
Funder: Staffordshire University
OpenAlex ID: W2260083837