Research on an Evaluation System for Local Universities Serving High-Quality Development of Local Economies

Abstract

As a result of the recent changes in regional development patterns, local universities have developed deeper connections with their local economies and regional societies. In comparison to earlier forms of interaction between universities and their communities, this relationship has evolved from a surface or shallow level to become much more deeply integrated with both economic and social development. Traditional evaluation methods, while helpful, have significant limitations regarding accurately measuring the contributions made through service by the university to its respective community. The primary objective of this research project is to fulfil this urgent or practical need through a comprehensive multidimensional model that evaluates universities based upon contributions, fit, and ability for growth. The intent of this model is not to focus solely on university research outputs or on graduate numbers; rather, it will evaluate in more depth the effectiveness and potential contributions of the university in the principal areas of human resource development, technological innovation, and cultural ecological development in building high-quality regional development. The ultimate outcome of this research will be to develop a scientifically based tool for evaluating and measuring both the diagnostic and growth potential of universities within their respective communities.