Universities in Saudi Arabia: Their Role in Science, Technology, and Development

This book examines the role of Saudi universities in the advancement of scientific research, their relations with and contributions to national development, their performance in the creation of an indigenous high quality scientific and technological base and their involvement in community service. Contents: Introduction: An Overview in the Saudi Arabian Context: Socio-economic and Cultural Environment; Education: Historical Background; Higher Education; Science and Technology; Policies and Issues; Role and Performance of the Universities: Historical Role and Functions of the Universities; Problems and Issues; The Conceptual Framework; Research Role and Performance: Notions and Perspectives: Introduction and Views; Nature and Scope of Research; Research and Its Perceptions; Research and Patterns of University Organization; Research and Socio-cultural Environment; National Development Goals: Introduction and Views; Linkages Between the University and the Industry; Coordination with Universities and Planning Agencies; Technology Transfer and R & D Capabilities; Monitoring the Objectives; Specialized Skill-Building: Introduction and Views; Technology Gap: Appropriate Curriculum and Training; Specialized Manpower: Current Status; Coordination Among the Professions; General Skill-Building: Introduction and Views; Perception of Cultural and Religious Barriers; Vocational Education vs. University System and the Community; Conclusions: New Directions; Models for Future Implementations and Study; Suggested Bibliography; Index.