Grand Innovation Prizes: A theoretical,normative, and empirical evaluation

This paper provides a systematic examination of the use of a Grand Innovation Prize (GIP) in action – the Progressive Automotive Insurance X PRIZE – a $10 million prize for a highly efficient vehicle. Following a mechanism design approach we define three key dimensions for GIP evaluation: objectives, design, and performance, where prize design includes ex ante specifications, ex ante incentives, qualification rules, and award governance. Within this framework we compare observations of GIPs from three domains – empirical reality, theory, and policy – to better understand their function as an incentive mechanism for encouraging new solutions to large-scale social challenges. Combining data from direct observation, personal interviews, and surveys, together with analysis of extant theory and policy documents on GIPs, our results highlight three points of divergence: first, over the complexity of defining prize specifications; secondly, over the nature and role of incentives, particularly patents; thirdly, the overlooked challenges associated with prize governance. Our approach identifies a clear roadmap for future theory and policy around GIPs.     

Using learning principles as a theoretical framework for instructional consultations

Learning theory provides a powerful framework for analyzing instructional consultations and increasing their effectiveness. In this paper, the authors review the main tenets of learning theory, apply them to consultation scenarios, and present a complex case study to show how they can guide analysis and problem solving around challenging consultations.     

Integrating technical editing students into a multidisciplinary engineering project

A three‐year experiment in integrating technical editing students into a multidisciplinary engineering design project developed several ways of helping students apply classroom learning to practical problems. Each year, the engineering students formed Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) and the technical editing students provided editorial support, first as full members of IPTs, then as separate editorial support teams. Research from cooperative learning and teamwork indicates strategies and techniques for best integrating the technical editing students.     

Assistive Technology and Universal Instructional Design: A Postsecondary Perspective

This article discusses the application of Universal Instructional Design principles to the field of assistive technology in higher education. The author makes suggestions for the use of assistive technology with attention to particular student learning styles. Ideas for ways to upgrade computer laboratory facilities are provided for administrators and faculty at institutions of higher learning.     

TRENDS RESHAPING COLLEGES

The annual Community College Futures Assembly is usually a trend-setting experience and this year was no exception. This special issue highlights lessons learned from the institutions who competitively presented and broke new ground at the 2002 Assembly. The theme, Trends in the New Economy , was evident in each presentation and the vehicle of web-casting demonstrated how the community college could be reshaped by technology. Attendees were introduced to the ideas reshaping the new economy by the keynote speaker Britt Beemer and the Bellwether Finalists presented viable examples of college adaptation to these reshaping trends. Important pre-assembly workshops introduced innovative concepts relating to the future of community colleges, including access to baccalaureate degrees. The stimulating presentations, enthusiastic camaraderie, and great meals set the stage for all attendees to take home trend-setting information to their institutions and communities. This introduction focuses on the experience of attending the 2002 Community College Futures Assembly. Approximately 200 community college trustees, presidents, vice-presidents, deans, faculty members, and other decision makers representing 25 states attended the Assembly which was held in Orlando, Florida. The Assembly is sponsored annually by the Institute of Higher Education (IHE), University of Florida (UF) and cosponsored this year by Dell Computers, Saville & Holdsworth, and the numerous organizations identified in this introduction. The assembly has provided quality learning experiences since 1995 and is proud to be an independent national policy forum recognized by the Association of Community College Trustees for its Trustee Education Recognition Program.