Abstract

Based on a review of economic theory and associated papers, the generally accepted five forces of national economic growth are identified. The fifth and most important of these is recognised as innovation, and through further analysis innovation is shown to be primarily dependant on creativity skills and new product (process or system) design. This is tied in with the second identified force which is improvement in the quality of labour through education, training and experience, and there is general acceptance that it is only in this area of education that government can exert any significant influence in a free market.The paper then describes the principles and practice underpinning a final year MEng module on Innovation, and outlines the radical and innovative approach taken to teaching and learning on this module through close collaboration with industry and through a largely student generated taught syllabus. The accompany conference presentation is an overview of an industry generated (client brief) team project which acts a vehicle for teaching and learning on the Innovation Module.