Cooperative Research Centre - A bridge between research and consumers Robert Cowan In 1992, our first Cooperative Research Centre programme was established, and subsequently we have embarked on a second seven-year program of focused applied research. The mandate of the CRC programme is to ensure that research is effectively coupled to the needs of end-users, and that the CRC's develop appropriate strategies to ensure the transfer of technology to both commercial and public application. In the field of cochlear implants and hearing aid technology, there is obvious need for research addressing the technical aspects of device development and improvement. To ensure appropriate commercialisation of outcomes, our industry end-users must be involved in the planning and conduct of research. However, device development must be coupled with research addressing the clinical and rehabilitation needs of clients who use these devices, with a focus on how to ensure that each user can gain the optimum benefit from their hearing prostheses. A further aspect of technology transfer is addressing the educational needs of the clinicians and professionals who interface between the technology and the consumer using hearing devices. The Centre has developed a number of initiatives to ensure that this vital link in service delivery is established. |