Abstract
Technology transfer plays a fundamental role in enabling Brazilian institutions to access world-class knowledge and innovation while contributing to the country's economic and social development. This chapter explores the importance of technology transfer as an essential mechanism for the internationalization of higher education in Brazil. It conducts a comprehensive analysis of the literature, addressing key concepts, legal frameworks, challenges, and associated impacts of internationalization. This study provides valuable insights for educational administrators, researchers, and policymakers interested in promoting academic excellence and socioeconomic development in Brazil through international collaboration. However, it also highlights the need to address challenges such as development asymmetries and resistance when pursuing effective internationalization. Internationalization of higher education is an evolving field with significant opportunities for the future.
Top2. Evolution Of Internationalization Of Higher Education
It is a common theme among authors studying university internationalization to understand it as motivated by what they refer to as rationalities. These rationalities describe the logic for internationalization according to political, economic, social, academic, and cultural risks or opportunities. Among such motivations, we can mention that the internationalization of higher education occurs due to political rationality to increase international autonomy and competitiveness (Aigner et al., 1992; Scott, 1992). Economic rationality for attracting students, training workers, or technology transfer (Aigner et al., 1992; Scott, 1992). Cultural rationality promotes integration among nations, environmental sustainability, and reaffirms ethnic and belief diversity (Aigner et al., 1992; Scott, 1992). Motivations are associated with each institution's place in the world and are influenced by the contemporary socio-historical context; it is a multifaceted social process with distinct meanings and outcomes for each institution, subject to political disputes, facing limits and resistance, and becoming a point of social confrontations (Stallivieri, 2009).
Key Terms in this Chapter
Technology Transfer: The process of disseminating scientific discoveries and innovations from academia to industry and other sectors of society to facilitate their practical application and commercialization.
National Innovation System: The set of interconnected institutions, policies, and actors within a country that contribute to the generation, diffusion, and application of innovation and technology, including universities, research centers, and government agencies.
Internationalization of Higher Education: The deliberate efforts and strategies employed by higher education institutions and governments to integrate an international and intercultural dimension into teaching, research, and service functions, fostering global engagement and collaboration.
Technology Transfer Office (TTO): A specialized office within a higher education institution or research organization responsible for managing the intellectual property, technology licensing, and commercialization activities related to research outcomes and innovations.
Technology Transfer Mechanism: The mechanisms, processes, and tools employed to facilitate the transfer of technology and knowledge, including research collaborations, licensing agreements, and joint ventures.
International Technology Transfer: The transfer of knowledge, technology, and innovations across international borders, often involving collaborations between institutions, researchers, and organizations from different countries.
Innovation Ecosystem: A complex network of interconnected actors, including universities, businesses, research institutions, government agencies, and startups, that collaborate to support innovation, technology development, and entrepreneurship within a region or sector.