The intersection of the learning region and local and regional economic development: Analysing the role of higher education

The aim of this article is to examine the intersection of the learning region with regional economic development. Specifically the focus is upon the role of institutions of higher education in facilitating economic development. Universities potentially contribute in two ways. First, they are a critical source of knowledge and learning activities; and second, they provide some of the essential knowledge infrastructure. In recognizing this role, the question we pose is how to evaluate a university's participation in the learning economy, what are the linkages established and how embedded are they are in the local economy?