Different Approaches to Regional Embeddedness and the Knowledge Triangle in Germany
This paper discusses approaches used by different types of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Germany when they develop their patterns of regional embeddedness and address the functions that are outlined by the Knowledge Triangle (KT). Although the term “knowledge triangle” is not widely used in Germany, we find that there are many developments with KT relevance taking place in the HEIs and Public Research Institutions (PRIs). By taking two examples (Heidelberg University and University of Applied Sciences Bremen), we show, how third mission policies are thriving, but adoption by HEIs and PRIs is very different, depending on the institutions’ structure, culture, and location (regional context). KT models, in particular third mission activities, are highly diverse and do not serve the single purpose of generating economic impact but are also geared towards social and environmental goals. We further find that the location of the HEIs matters for the role they can play and for the effects they can have on the region. In addition, both standard and non-standard national or institutional policies and strategies have played an important role in shaping regional embeddedness of HEIs in Germany.
Daimer, S., M. Rothgang und J. Dehio (2021), Different Approaches to Regional Embeddedness and the Knowledge Triangle in Germany. In Dirk Meissner, Leonid Gokhberg, Yaroslav Kuzminov, Mario Cervantes und Sylvia Schwaag Serger (Hrsg.), The Knowledge Triangle - Changing Higher Education and Research Management Paradigms. Cham: Springer, 63-83.