Evaluating the Role of Universities as Knowledge Hubs: Jordan University of Science and Technology as a Case Study

Abstract

Considering the substantial contribution of universities to the economic, urban, and social development, the role of universities as knowledge hubs (KHs) has been recently attracting attention of researchers worldwide. The study aims at evaluating the role of Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) as a locus of knowledge enhancing its performance and impact on economic, urban, and social development. The study approach consists of a descriptive analysis using knowledge-based urban growth assessment systems. A survey investigating opinions of a sample of faculty members, students, experts and stakeholders was undertaken to collect the required data on performance indicators. The performance of JUST as a knowledge-based center for urban growth nurturing creative visions was evaluated. The results indicate the existence of many limitations thwarting JUST to become a business incubator with the potential to support embryonic companies, promote scientific research, and ensure diversity of faculty members. The conclusion is that JUST is not yet capable of fulfilling the requirements of a knowledge hub. Many stakeholders have suggested various factors impacting the performance of JUST. The ambiguity of the knowledge hub concept to student population is one such factor. It is recommended that a shift of the university role as a center of learning and research to an economic and social nucleus should be made. More research work needs to be undertaken on this topic to explore the process of making the university as a knowledge hub.