Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation from edX

Innovation and accompanying science and technology are now seen not only to have a profound connection to our health and daily life, but also to the society’s economic growth and its corresponding ability to generate societal wellbeing and solve societal challenges -- and these economic and societal issues are deeply interrelated. This course focuses on science and technology policy – it will examine the science and technology innovation system, including case studies on energy, computing, advanced manufacturing and health sectors, with an emphasis on public policy and the federal government’s R&D role in that system. It will review the foundations of economic growth theory, innovation systems theory and innovation organization theory, as well as the basic approaches to science and technology policy, building toward a sophisticated understanding of these areas. The class will review a theory of direct and indirect economic factors in the innovation system, note the innovation-based competitive and advanced manufacturing challenges now facing the U.S. economy, review comparative efforts in other nations, study the varied models for how federal science and technology mission agencies are organized, and the growth of public-private partnership models as a way for science mission agencies to pursue mission agendas. Emphasis will also be placed on examining the organization and role of medical science and energy innovation agencies and gaps in the health, energy, and advanced production innovation economic models, as well as related innovation systems policy issues. The course will close with an examination of the science and technology talent base as a factor in growth and the education approaches that support it, and a discussion of the future of jobs and employment given increasing automation.

What you'll learn

Students will emerge from the course with a strong grasp of the fundamentals of innovation systems and the economic and technology development factors behind them, and with a clear framework to approach science and technology policymaking. They will understand the basics of innovation-based economic growth theory, and also take an in-depth look at the innovation systems in health and energy.

More specifically, students will develop an understanding of the following innovation policy areas:

The drivers behind science and technology support, including economic growth theory, direct and indirect innovation factors, Kondratiev innovation waves, innovation systems theory, the “valley of death” between research and late stage development, and public-private partnership models;
The organizing framework behind US science agencies, their missions and research organizational models, as well as the DARPA model as an alternative;
The competitiveness challenge in advanced production technologies, including global innovation models;
The organization of innovation at both the institutional and personal, face-to- face levels;
Challenges in the energy, computing and health innovation systems and also within legacy economic sectors in general;
Key issues in the science and engineering talent base and education system and pending employment and productivity issues.

What's inside

Learning objectives

The drivers behind science and technology support, including economic growth theory, direct and indirect innovation factors, kondratiev innovation waves, innovation systems theory, the “valley of death” between research and late stage development, and public-private partnership models;
The organizing framework behind us science agencies, their missions and research organizational models, as well as the darpa model as an alternative;
The competitiveness challenge in advanced production technologies, including global innovation models;

The organization of innovation at both the institutional and personal, face-to- face levels;
Challenges in the energy, computing and health innovation systems and also within legacy economic sectors in general;
Key issues in the science and engineering talent base and education system and pending employment and productivity issues.

The drivers behind science and technology support, including economic growth theory, direct and indirect innovation factors, kondratiev innovation waves, innovation systems theory, the “valley of death” between research and late stage development, and public-private partnership models;
The organizing framework behind us science agencies, their missions and research organizational models, as well as the darpa model as an alternative;
The competitiveness challenge in advanced production technologies, including global innovation models;
The organization of innovation at both the institutional and personal, face-to- face levels;
Challenges in the energy, computing and health innovation systems and also within legacy economic sectors in general;
Key issues in the science and engineering talent base and education system and pending employment and productivity issues.

Syllabus

Class 1 – The economic drivers behind the support of science and technology

Class 2 – The organizing framework behind federal R&D and technology agencies

Class 3 – Great Group theory – the organization of innovation at the face-to-face level

Class 4 – Barriers and opportunities in life science advance

Class 5 – The structure for obtaining an energy technology transformation

Class 6 – The competitiveness challenge in advanced manufacturing

Class 7 – A new roadmap for science and technology talent development and workforce education

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Designed for those with an economics or public policy background, as this knowledge is assumed and not taught

Instructors are recognized experts in science, technology, and innovation policy

Provides frameworks for understanding and developing economic and innovation systems

Examines challenges in energy, computing, health innovation systems, and advanced production technologies

Lack of examples and activities to solidify knowledge

Assumes learners come with some prior knowledge in economics or public policy. Those without this background knowledge may need to do some extra reading

Reviews summary

Well received policy course

Learners say this Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation course is mind opening and highly recommended. The amazing course offers great reading materials and engaging assignments while discussing broad overviews of current environments and policies.

The course provides a historical overview allowing learners to understand the emergence of current policies.

"The course provides a historic overview allowing to understand the emergrnce of current policies."

This course is full of essential knowledge you can apply to understand roles, inputs, outputs and outcomes within RD&I systems.

"I am really glad I enrolled in this course. Essential knowledge to understand roles, inputs, outputs, outcomes within RD&I system."

The course operates at a macro level and is limited in its discussion of specific strategies for entities outside the highest levels of government.

"The key limitation of the course is that it operates at the macro level."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation with these activities:

Connect with professionals in the field of innovation policy

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Establishing connections with professionals can provide valuable guidance, insights, and potential opportunities for collaboration or career advancement.

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Identify potential mentors through professional networks or industry events.
Reach out to individuals and express your interest in mentorship.
Establish clear expectations and goals for the mentorship.

Practice classical models in economics

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Practicing classical models will help refine your understanding of factors that affect economic growth.

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Review the foundational principles of economic growth theory.
Practice applying growth models to real-world scenarios.
Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of different theoretical approaches.

Participate in peer-led discussions on innovation theory and policy

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Engaging in peer discussions will foster critical thinking, enhance your understanding of complex concepts, and expose you to diverse perspectives.

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Join or form a peer discussion group.
Prepare for discussions by reading assigned materials.
Actively participate in discussions, sharing your insights and perspectives.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Review: 'The Entrepreneurial State: Debating the Institutions of Growth'

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This book provides a critical analysis of the role of the state in fostering innovation and economic growth, offering valuable insights for understanding the complex dynamics of innovation systems.

View Public Purpose on Amazon

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Read the assigned chapters.
Summarize key arguments and concepts.
Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the author's perspective.

Attend a workshop on science and technology policymaking

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Attending a workshop will provide you with practical insights into the process of science and technology policymaking, allowing you to engage with experts and policymakers directly.

Browse courses on Public Policy

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Identify and register for a relevant workshop.
Prepare for the workshop by reviewing background materials.
Actively participate in discussions and activities.

Contribute to open-source projects related to innovation policy

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Participating in open-source projects allows you to apply your knowledge, collaborate with others, and make a tangible contribution to the field of innovation policy.

Browse courses on Public Policy

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Identify open-source projects related to innovation policy.
Select a project and familiarize yourself with its goals and codebase.
Contribute to the project by fixing bugs, adding features, or improving documentation.

Develop a policy proposal for an innovation-based economic growth strategy

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Creating a policy proposal will deepen your understanding of the policymaking process and the key factors that influence innovation-based economic growth.

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Identify target areas for innovation-based growth.
Research and analyze best practices and policy frameworks.
Develop a comprehensive policy proposal outlining specific recommendations.

Write an essay on the impact of innovation on employment and productivity

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Writing an essay will require you to synthesize your knowledge, analyze the relationship between innovation and employment, and develop a coherent argument supported by evidence.

Browse courses on Innovation

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Research the impact of innovation on employment and productivity.
Organize your ideas into an outline.
Write a draft of your essay.

Career center

Learners who complete Policy for Science, Technology and Innovation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Technology Policy Analyst

Technology Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies that govern the development and use of technology. This course provides Technology Policy Analysts with a deep understanding of the factors that drive innovation, the challenges facing the science and technology innovation system, and the role of government in promoting technological progress. This knowledge is essential for developing policies that foster innovation and ensure that new technologies are used for the benefit of society.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technology Policy Analyst

Tech Entrepreneur

Tech Entrepreneurs launch and grow technology-based businesses. This course provides Tech Entrepreneurs with a comprehensive understanding of the innovation system, the challenges facing the commercialization of new technologies, and the role of government in promoting entrepreneurship. This knowledge is essential for developing and executing successful business strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Tech Entrepreneur

Science Policy Analyst

Science Policy Analysts provide expert advice to policymakers on the scientific and technological implications of proposed policies. This course provides Science Policy Analysts with a comprehensive understanding of the drivers behind science and technology support, the organization of innovation, and the challenges facing the science and technology innovation system. This knowledge is essential for developing sound policies that promote scientific research and technological innovation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Policy Analyst

Innovation Manager

Innovation Managers lead and manage innovation initiatives within organizations. This course provides Innovation Managers with a comprehensive understanding of innovation systems, the drivers of innovation, and the challenges facing the innovation process. This knowledge is essential for developing and implementing effective innovation strategies that drive growth and competitive advantage.

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Venture Capitalist

Venture Capitalists invest in early-stage technology companies. This course provides Venture Capitalists with a deep understanding of the innovation system, the challenges facing the commercialization of new technologies, and the role of venture capital in supporting entrepreneurship. This knowledge is essential for making sound investment decisions that generate long-term value.

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Health Policy Analyst

Health Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies that aim to improve the health of the population. This course provides Health Policy Analysts with a comprehensive understanding of the health innovation system, including the challenges facing the development and delivery of new health technologies. This knowledge is essential for developing policies that promote innovation and improve access to quality healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst

Futurist

Futurists study and predict future trends. This course provides Futurists with a comprehensive understanding of the drivers of technological change and the potential impact of new technologies on society. This knowledge is essential for developing visions of the future and identifying opportunities for innovation.

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Technology Transfer Manager

Technology Transfer Managers facilitate the transfer of technology from research institutions to the private sector. This course provides Technology Transfer Managers with a deep understanding of the innovation system, the challenges facing the commercialization of new technologies, and the role of government in promoting technology transfer. This knowledge is essential for developing and implementing effective technology transfer strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technology Transfer Manager

Research and Development Manager

Research and Development Managers oversee the development of new products and technologies. This course provides Research and Development Managers with a strong foundation in innovation systems and the economic and technology development factors behind them. This knowledge is essential for managing research and development projects effectively and ensuring that new products and technologies are brought to market successfully.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research and Development Manager

Economist

Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. This course provides Economists with a deep understanding of the factors that drive economic growth and technological change. This knowledge is essential for developing economic policies that promote sustainable growth and improve the well-being of society.

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Energy Policy Analyst

Energy Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies that promote the efficient use of energy and reduce reliance on foreign oil. This course helps Energy Policy Analysts understand the structure for obtaining an energy technology transformation, which is crucial for developing effective policies that support the transition to a clean energy economy.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate complex scientific and technical information to the public. This course provides Science Writers with a deep understanding of the science and technology innovation system, the challenges facing the communication of science, and the role of science in society. This knowledge is essential for developing effective science communication strategies that engage the public and promote understanding of science.

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Strategic Planner

Strategic Planners develop and implement long-term plans for organizations. This course provides Strategic Planners with a deep understanding of the factors that drive economic growth and technological change. This knowledge is essential for developing strategies that position organizations for success in the future.

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Investment Analyst

Investment Analysts analyze and evaluate investment opportunities. This course provides Investment Analysts with a deep understanding of the factors that drive economic growth and technological change. This knowledge is essential for making sound investment decisions that generate long-term value.

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Policy Advisor

Policy Advisors provide expert advice to policymakers on a wide range of issues. This course provides Policy Advisors with a comprehensive understanding of the policymaking process, the factors that influence policy decisions, and the role of evidence in policymaking. This knowledge is essential for developing and advocating for policies that are based on sound evidence and that meet the needs of society.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Advisor