Geography of innovation

Timetable

Module aim (aims)

The lecture offers a geographic dimension to the study of innovation. The lecture aims to understand why the location of innovative activity varies spatially, specifically the externalities and increasing returns which accrue to location. Building on the literature in economics and geography, the lecture demonstrates that innovation clusters spatially in regions that provide knowledge concentrations. The lecture presents the development of innovative spaces across the globe and the role of innovations in the economic development of these spaces.

Pre-requisites in terms of knowledge, skills and social competences (where relevant)

Basic knowledge related to economic geography. Ability to think creatively and take part in the discussion.

Syllabus

 

1. Basic definitions and theory of innovation

 

1. Why location matters for innovative activity

 

1. Spatial patterns of innovation

 

1. Regional innovation system

 

1. Innovations in the city - innovative districts 

 

1. Role of the eco-innovations in the green transformation

 

1. Innovation policy

 

Reading list

1. Feldman, M. P. 1994, The geography of innovation. Kluwer Academic Dordrecht. Boston

2. Heiberg, J.; Truffer, B. 2022, The emergence of a global innovation system – A case study from the urban water sector, Environmental Innovation and Societal Transitions, 43, pp. 270-288

3. Asheim, B.; Grillitsch, M.; Trippl, M. 2015, Regional Innovation Systems: Past - Presence - Future. Papers in Innovation Studies.

4. Hassink, R. 2002, Regional innovation support systems: recent trends in Germany and East Asia. European Planning Studies, 10, 2, pp.153-164.

5. Cliff, A.; Pred, A.; Hägerstrand, T. 1992, Classics in human geography revisited: Hägerstrand, T. 1967: Innovation diffusion as a spatial process. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Translation and postscript by Allan Pred. Progress in Human Geography, 16, 4, pp. 541-544.