OAFP 4125 - Technology policy in global context: States, enterprises, power and progress

This course equips students to analyze, design and evaluate public policies related to industry, technology and innovation. With the humility that uncertainty demands, students will discuss how governments think about developing technology in frontier sectors, like semi-conductors, space, clean techs, etc. The course follows 3 sections: (1) theoretical foundations from innovation theory, political economy and macroeconomics; (2) policy analysis (institutions, strategy, policy instruments like funding…) ; (3) political and geopolitical dynamics, zooming on US-China competition, space policy and climate. Throughout the class, students will reflect on how policy instruments are combined as a mix and how policies are practiced vs. theory. They will become familiar with examples from across the globe and discuss how to factor in sustainability imperatives, administrative complexities or policy trade-offs.

Mathieu LUINAUD,Henri BRÉBANT

Enseignement électif

English

Students are expected to read materials of 10-20 pages for each session in order to come prepared for the case studies discussed in class. One group presentation is to be performed during the semester and presented in class, while the final paper (approx. 10 pages) will have to be delivered at the end of the semester.

This course requires limited prior knowledge except a basic understanding of economics.

Spring 2023-2024

Students will be assessed through their in-class participation to the case studies for which readings are required (10%), 1 group presentation (30%) and 1 final individual technology policy paper (approx. 10 pages) to be handed at the end of the semester (60%), and to be chosen within a given list or proposed by the student (with lecturers' approval).

Each class will be split between the lecture and a discussion around a case study to analyse a problem and develop policy solutions. To prepare for case studies, students will be expected to come to class having read the materials beforehand.