STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS THE ROLE OF ACADEMIC TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: A CASE STUDY AT SAIGON UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This study explores the attitudes of students towards the role of academic technology transfer at Saigon University, focusing on participants from three faculties: Information Technology, Environmental Sciences, and Natural Sciences Education, who have been or are currently involved in scientific research. With an increasing number of students engaging in research activities, there is a growing need to understand how they perceive the value of their research outcomes and their potential applications in industry, startups, or future careers. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, collecting data through surveys and focus group discussions with undergraduate students across these disciplines. The findings indicate that while students acknowledge the importance of technology transfer in linking academic research with real-world applications, their understanding of the process and its benefits is limited. Factors such as field of study, exposure to entrepreneurial activities, and the level of institutional support significantly influence their attitudes. The study concludes with recommendations for enhancing student engagement in technology transfer initiatives, suggesting that increased awareness, more tailored educational programs, and stronger support for commercialization could better equip students to leverage their research for future opportunities.