Impact of Erasmus Master Programmes on Regional Innovation and Higher Education: The Case of The Canary Islands

摘要

This article aims to show the impact of Erasmus Masters Programmes on Innovation and Higher Education at a regional level, using the case of the Canary Islands as an example. First, a general characterization and analysis of the situation of Innovation in Canary Islands and, particularly, of Higher Education is provided. Afterwards, a general description of the Erasmus Programme and its main priorities is described. The current impact of Erasmus Master Programmes on regional Innovation and Higher Education in the Canary Islands is assessed based on the definition of the implications of the diverse lines of action ofan Erasmus Program on Innovation and Higher Education. The positive aspects of the Erasmus Programs regarding regional Innovation and Higher Education are highlighted, such as the promotion of internationalization and regional cooperation, and also areas that could be improved are indicated. Finally, based on the assessment made, a series of recommendations to improve the impact of Erasmus Programmes in relation to regional Innovation and Higher Education are presented. Among these recommendations we can cite increasing expenditure on R&D and Innovation progressively, especially in business and in science and promoting bilingual programmes at universities in the Region.