Innovative ways to link University and Society

Track chair
Dr Maria-Jose Vieira • University of León • Spain

Track description
The university is confronted with several crises, the financial crisis currently having the most tangible impact. But, underneath a 'values' crisis is looming. Some authors argue that higher education has lost its sense of direction and ask what use the modern university has. At the same time, governments are expecting more of higher education, e.g. to contribute to the knowledge society and to increase the country's (or region's) competitive position.

Questions that need answers are:

• Which role(s) can higher education play to combat the current financial crisis?
• Should universities look for a new role in society? If so, which one?
• How can universities balance the different expectations from their societal stakeholders?
• In which areas can/should universities creatively build links to society: teaching, research, or in its third mission?