Steven Tello | University of Massachusetts, Lowell (original) (raw)

Papers by Steven Tello

Research paper thumbnail of An Analysis of Student Persistence in Online Education

IGI Global eBooks, Jan 18, 2011

This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence am... more This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence among adult students in online courses. A survey research methodology was used to examine the frequency and the method of instructional interaction in online courses, student attitudes regarding instructional interaction, and the reasons online students provide for persisting in, or withdrawing from, online courses. The results indicate that student perceptions regarding the contribution of asynchronous, discussion forum use combined with frequent use of asynchronous discussion account for 26% of the variance in course persistence rates. Consistent with the literature on adult student dropout, the findings identify additional situational and institutional barriers to persistence among students in online courses. The findings suggest that strategies to facilitate student persistence in online courses should address online instructional techniques, faculty development, technology development, and program development.

Research paper thumbnail of An Analysis of Student Persistence in Online Education

IGI Global eBooks, 2008

This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence am... more This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence among adult students in online courses. A survey research methodology was used to examine the frequency and the method of instructional interaction in online courses, student attitudes regarding instructional interaction, and the reasons online students provide for persisting in, or withdrawing from, online courses. The results indicate that student perceptions regarding the contribution of asynchronous, discussion forum use combined with frequent use of asynchronous discussion account for 26% of the variance in course persistence rates. Consistent with the literature on adult student dropout, the findings identify additional situational and institutional barriers to persistence among students in online courses. The findings suggest that strategies to facilitate student persistence in online courses should address online instructional techniques, faculty development, technology development, and program development.

Research paper thumbnail of Technology Transfer: The Role of Consumer Products for Individuals with Disabilities

Work-a Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, 1993

ABSTRACT During the past decade, the technology industry has produced many devices designed to as... more ABSTRACT During the past decade, the technology industry has produced many devices designed to assist people in the completion of their day-to-day activities. Many of these devices were designed specifically to help individuals with disabilities increase their level of control and autonomy. A significant number of devices, not specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, offer additional opportunities for increased personal control. These "generic" devices span the range from products that facilitate measuring cooking ingredients to computer equipment that permits user access through voice commands. This vast range of "low"- and "high"-technology devices can easily be purchased through local department stores or mail order. As consumer demand for products increases, suppliers manufacture products that offer new potential to people with or without disabilities.

Research paper thumbnail of Bridging the Academic – Industry Divide

INTED2010 Proceedings, 2010

Research paper thumbnail of Online Social Networks and Nascent Entrepreneur Success (Interactive Paper)

Frontiers of entrepreneurship research, 2011

ABSTRACT Anecdotal and empirical evidence consistently points to the importance of networking in ... more ABSTRACT Anecdotal and empirical evidence consistently points to the importance of networking in the emergence of entrepreneurial ventures (Aldrich et al., 1987; Hoang & Antoncic, 2003; Kodithuwakku & Rosa, 2002). However, due to the difficulty in tracking entrepreneurial networking behaviors over time, it is still unclear how entrepreneurs can efficiently develop their networks to accommodate the growth of their businesses. To address these gaps in the literature, we conduct a longitudinal quantitative research project examining entrepreneurs’ online social networking behaviors and their success. In recent years, more and more professionals including many entrepreneurs are using these online social network websites to establish their business networks. Thus, online social network provides us with a great opportunity to observe entrepreneurs’ network in an objective manner and to track their behaviors on a timely basis. Also, we investigate the question in the context of business incubators as nascent entrepreneurs view the incubator as a nexus of resource networks and find significant value in the network surrounding the incubator.

Research paper thumbnail of Medical Device Innovation in Massachusetts -- M2D2: Massachusetts Medical Device Development Center

Research paper thumbnail of Advancing Medical Device and Biotech Innovations

Research paper thumbnail of Nascent Entrepreneurs Access and Use of Network Resources in a Technology Incubator

Journal of small business and entrepreneurship, 2012

Abstract This study utilized the setting of a technology incubator to analyze how nascent entrepr... more Abstract This study utilized the setting of a technology incubator to analyze how nascent entrepreneurs develop and leverage networks to secure resources as part of the venture creation process. Through rigorous qualitative methods, we examined how six medical device entrepreneurs used networks to obtain needed resources, the types of resources pursued and differences among entrepreneurs based on their level of network skill. Our findings illustrate the importance of the incubator in providing both tangible resources (funding, space, equipment) and less tangible but equally important resources (credibility, relationships, access to networks). Initial findings suggest that differences in the level of an entrepreneurs’ network skill relate to the development, but not necessarily the success, of the venture.

Research paper thumbnail of Do First Impressions Matter? Examining Information Visualization in Early Stage Entrepreneurial Venture Presentations (Summary)

Frontiers of entrepreneurship research, 2011

ABSTRACT When starting a new venture, entrepreneurs make countless presentations to prospective s... more ABSTRACT When starting a new venture, entrepreneurs make countless presentations to prospective stakeholders in order to secure the resources needed to launch and support their venture. These presentations promote information sharing with prospective stakeholders so they can then make informed decisions regarding future investment and involvement in the venture (Chen, Yao & Kotha, 2009). The nature, manner and efficacy with which entrepreneurs share or convey information is central to their ability to recruit financial support and successfully launch a new venture (Clark, 2008; Gregoire, de Konig & Oviatt, 2008). These presentations represent the entrepreneurial “first impression’. Our study asks, whether first impressions matter – we specifically examine the manner in which entrepreneurs organize information in a visual format to attract potential investors and collaborators.

Research paper thumbnail of Innovation as Part of Electrical Engineers Education

Current Journal of Applied Science and Technology, Feb 25, 2019

Unprecedented dynamics of the development of electronics could be easily tracked by comparing mar... more Unprecedented dynamics of the development of electronics could be easily tracked by comparing market figures for electronics versus steel, chemical and automotive industries in US and across the world. The multifaceted nature of semiconductor technology is clearly visible. Spinoff of such products as solar cells, Micro Electronic Machines, where electric motors of 3 microns in diameter are produced on silicon chip, biological sensors capable to monitor about 26 parameters of human body and extremely intelligent robots, these are based on already existing and future subfields of electronics. We would like to underline that the major factor, which made success of semiconductor electronics possible is the human factor, i.e., existence and participation of highly qualified electronic engineers and scientists. We examine how our electrical engineering education programs teach creativity and innovation. We suggest the ways of how can an innovation theory and practice be integrated into a very full engineering curriculum, so the electronic engineers graduating today, continue to create and innovate. This article examines engineering education trends at University of Massachusetts that reflect a growing commitment to assuring 21st century engineers have the knowledge and skills required to develop innovative technologies and products.

Research paper thumbnail of Drivers of Sustainable Innovation: Exploratory Views and Corporate Strategies

Seoul Journal of Business, Dec 1, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Distance Learning on the Internet: An Exploratory Study

Internet and Higher Education, Dec 1, 2000

The Internet and Web-based technologies have become a popular platform for the development and de... more The Internet and Web-based technologies have become a popular platform for the development and delivery of distance learning (DL) programs in an online class setting. While these programs have proven popular with both students and faculty, few research studies have been done to determine the impact of these virtual courses on student learning and/or satisfaction. This article presents the development of a Web-based course model and the results from an exploratory study conducted to determine the effectiveness of this model on student satisfaction. Results from the survey reveal that the students had a positive experience with this Web-based course model. Students were generally satisfied with the online learning environment, appreciated the flexibility of being able to access course material any time and any place, and were satisfied with quality and course content.

Research paper thumbnail of An Analysis of Student Persistence in Online Education

International Journal of Information and Communication Technology Education, Jul 1, 2007

This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence am... more This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence among adult students in online courses. A survey research methodology was used to examine the frequency and the method of instructional interaction in online courses, student attitudes regarding instructional interaction, and the reasons online students provide for persisting in, or withdrawing from, online courses. The results indicate that student perceptions regarding the contribution of asynchronous, discussion forum use combined with frequent use of asynchronous discussion account for 26% of the variance in course persistence rates. Consistent with the literature on adult student dropout, the findings identify additional situational and institutional barriers to persistence among students in online courses. The findings suggest that strategies to facilitate student persistence in online courses should address online instructional techniques, faculty development, technology development, and program development.

Research paper thumbnail of Strategies for Improving Instructor-Student Communication in Online Education

IGI Global eBooks, Jan 18, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Examining Entrepreneurs' Presentation Effectiveness in Generating Stakeholder Interest: Observations From the Medical Device Industry

Journal of Small Business Management, Sep 7, 2014

Entrepreneurs make countless pitches and presentations to prospective stakeholders that are criti... more Entrepreneurs make countless pitches and presentations to prospective stakeholders that are critical to securing needed resources. Our study examines whether or not certain aspects of visual presentations are more likely to elicit stakeholder interest. By applying precepts of information visualization theory, we empirically examine 42 early-stage venture poster presentations to determine the impact design and content have on attracting stakeholder interest. Our findings suggest that visualization matters; posters that included specific visual devices garnered a higher level of interest among prospective stakeholders, including investors and collaborators.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessing differences between technology transfer officers and institutions in the decision to commercialise new technologies

International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, 2011

Extant literature has identified a set of criteria critical to the successful commercialisation o... more Extant literature has identified a set of criteria critical to the successful commercialisation of new technologies, however little research has examined whether or not technology transfer officers uniformly apply these criteria in the commercialisation process. We undertook a quantitative and qualitative investigation of the manner in which decision criteria vary across a population of technology transfer officers. We surveyed 21 technology transfer officers at 11 different research institutions regarding their application of these criteria to specific, institutional technologies. Our findings suggest that the nature of the technology, experience of the transfer officer and organisation of the technology transfer office each influence the decision to pursue commercialisation of specific technologies. Subsequently, we interviewed six officers to better understand our initial findings. Through these interviews, we gained substantial insight into the process, importance of external partners, performance criteria, and institutional metrics for technology transfer success.

Research paper thumbnail of Outcome Assessment of Learning Objectives: A Case for using e-Learning Software

Americas Conference on Information Systems, 2006

There has been widespread interest within institutions of higher education to measure learning ou... more There has been widespread interest within institutions of higher education to measure learning outcomes. This has resulted in considerable debate on how to best define, measure, and achieve quality learning outcomes assessment. Yet, there has been no development of electronic processes and tools for continuous program assessment and feedback. This project addresses this challenge, with a $200K grant from the Davis Foundation, by using a commercial e-learning system, WebCT™, as a technology platform to support the articulation, implementation and reporting of common learning objectives defined across multiple academic disciplines. The project will develop a set of processes and a dashboard system to monitor and report on course and program level learning outcomes in accordance with the University's learning objectives. The goal of this project is to develop an electronic outcomes assessment process to improve the learning environment for students, the sharing environment for faculty and the reporting environment for administrators.

Research paper thumbnail of Corporate Social Responsibility as a Driver of Sustainable Innovation: Greening Initiatives of Leading Global Brands

Competition Forum, Jul 1, 2009

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Corporate commitment to sustainable innovation is triggered by a number of driv... more EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Corporate commitment to sustainable innovation is triggered by a number of driving forces such as the increasing environmental concern of the public and customers, the advancement of environmental technologies, the enforcement of government regulations and the pressure of social activism. The emerging business culture of social responsibility also drives corporations to become proactive toward sustainable innovation. Being environmentally responsible helps corporations reduce their exposure to social criticism and appeal to the customers looking for green products and services. This paper briefly reviews the literature on the drivers of sustainable innovation and explores the recent industry practice of strategic transition to sustainable innovation through a case analysis of leading global brands claiming to be socially responsible business entities. Keywords: Sustainable innovation, Social responsibility, Global brands INTRODUCTION Facing the increasing environmental challenges in today's global business market, corporations are proactively or reactively engaging in strategic initiatives toward environmental protection and resource conservation. Corporate commitment to sustainable business programs are driven by a number of external and internal forces, including customer demand for environmentally sound products, technology advances supporting sustainable innovation, government regulations for environmental control, social activism toward environmental concerns as well as an emerging business culture of social responsibility. The notion of social responsibility often lies behind corporate commitment to sustainable innovation. For example, the 3M Company mission statement declares a comprehensive commitment to environmental protection, social responsibility and economic progress (www.3m.com). Canon, Inc. proposes "living and working together for the common good" as a corporate philosophy leading toward a full commitment to environmentally conscious management through innovative technologies, environmental evaluation systems and the adoption of initiatives that reduce the environmental burden of business activities (www.canon.com). Bank of America accepts, as a core corporate responsibility, the need to care for "business activities threatening the long-term sustainability of the economy, prosperity and the way of life" (www.bankofamerica.com). This paper briefly reviews the literature on the drivers of sustainable innovation, focusing on the practice of corporate social responsibility, examines different approaches towards corporate commitment to sustainable innovation through a case study of leading global brands, and discusses strategic and managerial implications from a benchmarking perspective. KEY DRIVERS OF SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION Our research focuses on the impact of five drivers of sustainable innovation: government intervention, social activism, customer demand, technology advance and CSR initiatives. While it is possible to expand the discussion to other drivers, these drivers are observable from outside an organization, supporting external review and analysis, and are closely related to corporate response and strategy concerning sustainability. Daly and Portnoy (2004) argue that, without external intervention, the environment will not sustain a quality level of living for all. Economic growth should be controlled to conserve natural resources since unregulated markets neglect essential needs for public goods, externalize a significant portion of real production costs and lead to monopoly control over resource allocation. Simpson et al. (2004) observes that governments exercise regulations and incentives not only to protect the environment but also to promote the competitiveness of the economy. Public policies in favor of environmental R&D have provided corporations with incentives to avoid damaging the environment while preserving the competitiveness in the market although, in the short run, corporate compliance with government regulations requires financial resources. …

Research paper thumbnail of CSR Reporting on the Corporate Commitment to Sustainable Innovation

International journal of strategic management, Mar 1, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Using a Learning Management System to Facilitate Learning Outcomes Assessment

IGI Global eBooks, May 26, 2010

Increased demands for accountability among state and federal policy makers require that colleges ... more Increased demands for accountability among state and federal policy makers require that colleges and universities improve the process of measuring student learning outcomes. Despite a growing need, there has been limited development of integrated, electronic processes and tools that facilitate assessment of student progress toward program-level learning outcomes. Collecting student course materials, classifying by program and course-level objectives and reporting the results remains a tedious and labor-intensive task. This project demonstrates how course-level assessment data from a learning management system (LMS) can be utilized for program-level outcomes assessment. A pilot system was developed to integrate data from a LMS to provide continuous reporting of program and course-level assessment with minimal additional effort from faculty and students. This chapter shares our outcomes assessment system development approach, faculty development approach, and the lessons learned from our project, including the challenges confronted during system implementation.

Research paper thumbnail of An Analysis of Student Persistence in Online Education

IGI Global eBooks, Jan 18, 2011

This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence am... more This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence among adult students in online courses. A survey research methodology was used to examine the frequency and the method of instructional interaction in online courses, student attitudes regarding instructional interaction, and the reasons online students provide for persisting in, or withdrawing from, online courses. The results indicate that student perceptions regarding the contribution of asynchronous, discussion forum use combined with frequent use of asynchronous discussion account for 26% of the variance in course persistence rates. Consistent with the literature on adult student dropout, the findings identify additional situational and institutional barriers to persistence among students in online courses. The findings suggest that strategies to facilitate student persistence in online courses should address online instructional techniques, faculty development, technology development, and program development.

Research paper thumbnail of An Analysis of Student Persistence in Online Education

IGI Global eBooks, 2008

This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence am... more This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence among adult students in online courses. A survey research methodology was used to examine the frequency and the method of instructional interaction in online courses, student attitudes regarding instructional interaction, and the reasons online students provide for persisting in, or withdrawing from, online courses. The results indicate that student perceptions regarding the contribution of asynchronous, discussion forum use combined with frequent use of asynchronous discussion account for 26% of the variance in course persistence rates. Consistent with the literature on adult student dropout, the findings identify additional situational and institutional barriers to persistence among students in online courses. The findings suggest that strategies to facilitate student persistence in online courses should address online instructional techniques, faculty development, technology development, and program development.

Research paper thumbnail of Technology Transfer: The Role of Consumer Products for Individuals with Disabilities

Work-a Journal of Prevention Assessment & Rehabilitation, 1993

ABSTRACT During the past decade, the technology industry has produced many devices designed to as... more ABSTRACT During the past decade, the technology industry has produced many devices designed to assist people in the completion of their day-to-day activities. Many of these devices were designed specifically to help individuals with disabilities increase their level of control and autonomy. A significant number of devices, not specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, offer additional opportunities for increased personal control. These "generic" devices span the range from products that facilitate measuring cooking ingredients to computer equipment that permits user access through voice commands. This vast range of "low"- and "high"-technology devices can easily be purchased through local department stores or mail order. As consumer demand for products increases, suppliers manufacture products that offer new potential to people with or without disabilities.

Research paper thumbnail of Bridging the Academic – Industry Divide

INTED2010 Proceedings, 2010

Research paper thumbnail of Online Social Networks and Nascent Entrepreneur Success (Interactive Paper)

Frontiers of entrepreneurship research, 2011

ABSTRACT Anecdotal and empirical evidence consistently points to the importance of networking in ... more ABSTRACT Anecdotal and empirical evidence consistently points to the importance of networking in the emergence of entrepreneurial ventures (Aldrich et al., 1987; Hoang & Antoncic, 2003; Kodithuwakku & Rosa, 2002). However, due to the difficulty in tracking entrepreneurial networking behaviors over time, it is still unclear how entrepreneurs can efficiently develop their networks to accommodate the growth of their businesses. To address these gaps in the literature, we conduct a longitudinal quantitative research project examining entrepreneurs’ online social networking behaviors and their success. In recent years, more and more professionals including many entrepreneurs are using these online social network websites to establish their business networks. Thus, online social network provides us with a great opportunity to observe entrepreneurs’ network in an objective manner and to track their behaviors on a timely basis. Also, we investigate the question in the context of business incubators as nascent entrepreneurs view the incubator as a nexus of resource networks and find significant value in the network surrounding the incubator.

Research paper thumbnail of Medical Device Innovation in Massachusetts -- M2D2: Massachusetts Medical Device Development Center

Research paper thumbnail of Advancing Medical Device and Biotech Innovations

Research paper thumbnail of Nascent Entrepreneurs Access and Use of Network Resources in a Technology Incubator

Journal of small business and entrepreneurship, 2012

Abstract This study utilized the setting of a technology incubator to analyze how nascent entrepr... more Abstract This study utilized the setting of a technology incubator to analyze how nascent entrepreneurs develop and leverage networks to secure resources as part of the venture creation process. Through rigorous qualitative methods, we examined how six medical device entrepreneurs used networks to obtain needed resources, the types of resources pursued and differences among entrepreneurs based on their level of network skill. Our findings illustrate the importance of the incubator in providing both tangible resources (funding, space, equipment) and less tangible but equally important resources (credibility, relationships, access to networks). Initial findings suggest that differences in the level of an entrepreneurs’ network skill relate to the development, but not necessarily the success, of the venture.

Research paper thumbnail of Do First Impressions Matter? Examining Information Visualization in Early Stage Entrepreneurial Venture Presentations (Summary)

Frontiers of entrepreneurship research, 2011

ABSTRACT When starting a new venture, entrepreneurs make countless presentations to prospective s... more ABSTRACT When starting a new venture, entrepreneurs make countless presentations to prospective stakeholders in order to secure the resources needed to launch and support their venture. These presentations promote information sharing with prospective stakeholders so they can then make informed decisions regarding future investment and involvement in the venture (Chen, Yao & Kotha, 2009). The nature, manner and efficacy with which entrepreneurs share or convey information is central to their ability to recruit financial support and successfully launch a new venture (Clark, 2008; Gregoire, de Konig & Oviatt, 2008). These presentations represent the entrepreneurial “first impression’. Our study asks, whether first impressions matter – we specifically examine the manner in which entrepreneurs organize information in a visual format to attract potential investors and collaborators.

Research paper thumbnail of Innovation as Part of Electrical Engineers Education

Current Journal of Applied Science and Technology, Feb 25, 2019

Unprecedented dynamics of the development of electronics could be easily tracked by comparing mar... more Unprecedented dynamics of the development of electronics could be easily tracked by comparing market figures for electronics versus steel, chemical and automotive industries in US and across the world. The multifaceted nature of semiconductor technology is clearly visible. Spinoff of such products as solar cells, Micro Electronic Machines, where electric motors of 3 microns in diameter are produced on silicon chip, biological sensors capable to monitor about 26 parameters of human body and extremely intelligent robots, these are based on already existing and future subfields of electronics. We would like to underline that the major factor, which made success of semiconductor electronics possible is the human factor, i.e., existence and participation of highly qualified electronic engineers and scientists. We examine how our electrical engineering education programs teach creativity and innovation. We suggest the ways of how can an innovation theory and practice be integrated into a very full engineering curriculum, so the electronic engineers graduating today, continue to create and innovate. This article examines engineering education trends at University of Massachusetts that reflect a growing commitment to assuring 21st century engineers have the knowledge and skills required to develop innovative technologies and products.

Research paper thumbnail of Drivers of Sustainable Innovation: Exploratory Views and Corporate Strategies

Seoul Journal of Business, Dec 1, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Distance Learning on the Internet: An Exploratory Study

Internet and Higher Education, Dec 1, 2000

The Internet and Web-based technologies have become a popular platform for the development and de... more The Internet and Web-based technologies have become a popular platform for the development and delivery of distance learning (DL) programs in an online class setting. While these programs have proven popular with both students and faculty, few research studies have been done to determine the impact of these virtual courses on student learning and/or satisfaction. This article presents the development of a Web-based course model and the results from an exploratory study conducted to determine the effectiveness of this model on student satisfaction. Results from the survey reveal that the students had a positive experience with this Web-based course model. Students were generally satisfied with the online learning environment, appreciated the flexibility of being able to access course material any time and any place, and were satisfied with quality and course content.

Research paper thumbnail of An Analysis of Student Persistence in Online Education

International Journal of Information and Communication Technology Education, Jul 1, 2007

This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence am... more This study examines the relationship between instructional interaction and student persistence among adult students in online courses. A survey research methodology was used to examine the frequency and the method of instructional interaction in online courses, student attitudes regarding instructional interaction, and the reasons online students provide for persisting in, or withdrawing from, online courses. The results indicate that student perceptions regarding the contribution of asynchronous, discussion forum use combined with frequent use of asynchronous discussion account for 26% of the variance in course persistence rates. Consistent with the literature on adult student dropout, the findings identify additional situational and institutional barriers to persistence among students in online courses. The findings suggest that strategies to facilitate student persistence in online courses should address online instructional techniques, faculty development, technology development, and program development.

Research paper thumbnail of Strategies for Improving Instructor-Student Communication in Online Education

IGI Global eBooks, Jan 18, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Examining Entrepreneurs' Presentation Effectiveness in Generating Stakeholder Interest: Observations From the Medical Device Industry

Journal of Small Business Management, Sep 7, 2014

Entrepreneurs make countless pitches and presentations to prospective stakeholders that are criti... more Entrepreneurs make countless pitches and presentations to prospective stakeholders that are critical to securing needed resources. Our study examines whether or not certain aspects of visual presentations are more likely to elicit stakeholder interest. By applying precepts of information visualization theory, we empirically examine 42 early-stage venture poster presentations to determine the impact design and content have on attracting stakeholder interest. Our findings suggest that visualization matters; posters that included specific visual devices garnered a higher level of interest among prospective stakeholders, including investors and collaborators.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessing differences between technology transfer officers and institutions in the decision to commercialise new technologies

International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation, 2011

Extant literature has identified a set of criteria critical to the successful commercialisation o... more Extant literature has identified a set of criteria critical to the successful commercialisation of new technologies, however little research has examined whether or not technology transfer officers uniformly apply these criteria in the commercialisation process. We undertook a quantitative and qualitative investigation of the manner in which decision criteria vary across a population of technology transfer officers. We surveyed 21 technology transfer officers at 11 different research institutions regarding their application of these criteria to specific, institutional technologies. Our findings suggest that the nature of the technology, experience of the transfer officer and organisation of the technology transfer office each influence the decision to pursue commercialisation of specific technologies. Subsequently, we interviewed six officers to better understand our initial findings. Through these interviews, we gained substantial insight into the process, importance of external partners, performance criteria, and institutional metrics for technology transfer success.

Research paper thumbnail of Outcome Assessment of Learning Objectives: A Case for using e-Learning Software

Americas Conference on Information Systems, 2006

There has been widespread interest within institutions of higher education to measure learning ou... more There has been widespread interest within institutions of higher education to measure learning outcomes. This has resulted in considerable debate on how to best define, measure, and achieve quality learning outcomes assessment. Yet, there has been no development of electronic processes and tools for continuous program assessment and feedback. This project addresses this challenge, with a $200K grant from the Davis Foundation, by using a commercial e-learning system, WebCT™, as a technology platform to support the articulation, implementation and reporting of common learning objectives defined across multiple academic disciplines. The project will develop a set of processes and a dashboard system to monitor and report on course and program level learning outcomes in accordance with the University's learning objectives. The goal of this project is to develop an electronic outcomes assessment process to improve the learning environment for students, the sharing environment for faculty and the reporting environment for administrators.

Research paper thumbnail of Corporate Social Responsibility as a Driver of Sustainable Innovation: Greening Initiatives of Leading Global Brands

Competition Forum, Jul 1, 2009

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Corporate commitment to sustainable innovation is triggered by a number of driv... more EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Corporate commitment to sustainable innovation is triggered by a number of driving forces such as the increasing environmental concern of the public and customers, the advancement of environmental technologies, the enforcement of government regulations and the pressure of social activism. The emerging business culture of social responsibility also drives corporations to become proactive toward sustainable innovation. Being environmentally responsible helps corporations reduce their exposure to social criticism and appeal to the customers looking for green products and services. This paper briefly reviews the literature on the drivers of sustainable innovation and explores the recent industry practice of strategic transition to sustainable innovation through a case analysis of leading global brands claiming to be socially responsible business entities. Keywords: Sustainable innovation, Social responsibility, Global brands INTRODUCTION Facing the increasing environmental challenges in today's global business market, corporations are proactively or reactively engaging in strategic initiatives toward environmental protection and resource conservation. Corporate commitment to sustainable business programs are driven by a number of external and internal forces, including customer demand for environmentally sound products, technology advances supporting sustainable innovation, government regulations for environmental control, social activism toward environmental concerns as well as an emerging business culture of social responsibility. The notion of social responsibility often lies behind corporate commitment to sustainable innovation. For example, the 3M Company mission statement declares a comprehensive commitment to environmental protection, social responsibility and economic progress (www.3m.com). Canon, Inc. proposes "living and working together for the common good" as a corporate philosophy leading toward a full commitment to environmentally conscious management through innovative technologies, environmental evaluation systems and the adoption of initiatives that reduce the environmental burden of business activities (www.canon.com). Bank of America accepts, as a core corporate responsibility, the need to care for "business activities threatening the long-term sustainability of the economy, prosperity and the way of life" (www.bankofamerica.com). This paper briefly reviews the literature on the drivers of sustainable innovation, focusing on the practice of corporate social responsibility, examines different approaches towards corporate commitment to sustainable innovation through a case study of leading global brands, and discusses strategic and managerial implications from a benchmarking perspective. KEY DRIVERS OF SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION Our research focuses on the impact of five drivers of sustainable innovation: government intervention, social activism, customer demand, technology advance and CSR initiatives. While it is possible to expand the discussion to other drivers, these drivers are observable from outside an organization, supporting external review and analysis, and are closely related to corporate response and strategy concerning sustainability. Daly and Portnoy (2004) argue that, without external intervention, the environment will not sustain a quality level of living for all. Economic growth should be controlled to conserve natural resources since unregulated markets neglect essential needs for public goods, externalize a significant portion of real production costs and lead to monopoly control over resource allocation. Simpson et al. (2004) observes that governments exercise regulations and incentives not only to protect the environment but also to promote the competitiveness of the economy. Public policies in favor of environmental R&D have provided corporations with incentives to avoid damaging the environment while preserving the competitiveness in the market although, in the short run, corporate compliance with government regulations requires financial resources. …

Research paper thumbnail of CSR Reporting on the Corporate Commitment to Sustainable Innovation

International journal of strategic management, Mar 1, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Using a Learning Management System to Facilitate Learning Outcomes Assessment

IGI Global eBooks, May 26, 2010

Increased demands for accountability among state and federal policy makers require that colleges ... more Increased demands for accountability among state and federal policy makers require that colleges and universities improve the process of measuring student learning outcomes. Despite a growing need, there has been limited development of integrated, electronic processes and tools that facilitate assessment of student progress toward program-level learning outcomes. Collecting student course materials, classifying by program and course-level objectives and reporting the results remains a tedious and labor-intensive task. This project demonstrates how course-level assessment data from a learning management system (LMS) can be utilized for program-level outcomes assessment. A pilot system was developed to integrate data from a LMS to provide continuous reporting of program and course-level assessment with minimal additional effort from faculty and students. This chapter shares our outcomes assessment system development approach, faculty development approach, and the lessons learned from our project, including the challenges confronted during system implementation.