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Session Number: 2002-1829

Integrating Entrepreneurship in Informatics Education S Alexander & H G McAllister, University of Ulster, N. Ireland

Abstract The University of Ulster places a strong emphasis on vocational education and work- based learning. Furthermore, the Faculty of Informatics has recognised achievements in technology transfer and industrial collaboration. This paper outlines how the industrial partnerships forged and experiences gained through these ventures have been utilised in the design, delivery and assessment of an undergraduate module in entrepreneurship. Different models for incorporating entrepreneurial skills will be explored including: · Classroom based teaching, learning and assessment; · Support for students in industrial placement through the use of a Virtual Learning Environment (WebCT); · Development of a portfolio of professional competencies; highlighting the merits and problems associated with each. 1. Background The EU Enterprise Commissioner Erkki Liikanen has stated that, “Innovation is the key to competitiveness”. Moreover “substantial gains from information technology will be possible in the future” 1. According to the European Innovation Scoreboard 2001 2, the United Kingdom generates a higher percentage of science and engineering graduates than any other European state. This is particularly significant as the UK also has one of the highest rates of participation in both tertiary education (28.1%) and life- long learning (21%). 4.2% of the workforce are now employed in the high-tech services (telecommunications and information technology including software development). In the same document, the UK is the only state reported to have a perceived strength in education. This may, in part, be attributable to new national initiatives aimed at encouraging and rewarding partnerships between universities and business, the transfer of knowledge and expertise, and the development of employment skills. Such initiatives form part of a “third mission” for higher education to run alongside those for teaching, learning and research, thus ensuring that higher education is responsive to the needs of business, including the wider community, where this will lead to wealth creation. Current activities include:- · The Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) providing funding to support large, strategic collaborative projects that increase the capability of academic institutions to respond to the needs of business and strengthen business/higher education partnerships;

Proceedings of the 2002 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright ã 2002, American Society for Engineering Education

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Alexander, S. (2002, June), Integrating Entrepreneurship In Informatics Education Paper presented at 2002 Annual Conference, Montreal, Canada. 10.18260/1-2--10550