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Estimation of research and development expenditures in the higher education sector, 2005/2006
Definitions
Natural sciences and engineering
The natural sciences and engineering (NSE) field embraces the disciplines of study concerned with understanding, exploring, developing or utilizing the natural world. Included are the engineering, mathematical, life and physical sciences.
Social sciences and humanities
The social sciences and humanities (SSH) field embraces all disciplines involved in studying human actions and conditions and the social, economic and institutional mechanisms affecting humans. Included are such disciplines as anthropology, demography, economics, geography, history, languages, literature and linguistics, law, library science, philosophy, political science, psychology, religious studies, social work, sociology, and urban and regional studies.
Scientific research and experimental development (R&D)
Creative work undertaken on a systematic basis in order to increase the stock of scientific and technical knowledge and to use this knowledge in new applications.
The central characteristic of R&D is an appreciable element of novelty and of uncertainty. New knowledge, products or processes are sought. The work is normally performed by, or under the supervision of, persons with postgraduate degrees in the natural sciences or engineering.
An R&D project generally has three characteristics:
- a substantial element of uncertainty, novelty and innovation;
- a well-defined project design;
- a report on the procedures and results of the projects.
Canadian business enterprises
This sector is composed of business and government enterprises, including public utilities and government owned firms and frequently referred to as the industry sector. Incorporated consultants providing scientific and engineering services are also included. Industrial research institutes located at Canadian universities are considered to be in the university sector.
Higher education
The higher education sector is composed of all universities, colleges of technology and other institute of post-secondary education, whatever their source of finance or legal status. It also includes all research institutes, experimental stations and clinics operating under the direct control of, or administered by, or associated with, the higher education establishments.
Canadian private non-profit institutions
Charitable foundations, voluntary health organizations, scientific and professional societies, and other organizations not established to earn profits comprise this sector. Private non-profit institutions primarily serving or controlled by another sector should be included in that sector (e.g., the Pulp and Paper Research Institute is in Canadian business enterprises).
Canadian provincial and municipal governments
Departments and agencies of these governments form this sector. Government enterprises, such as provincial utilities are included in the Canadian business enterprises sector, and hospitals in the Canadian non-profit institutions or university sector.
Other Canadian performers
This sector includes all individuals or organizations not belonging to any of the above sectors. In particular, it includes provincial research councils and foundations.
Foreign performers
All foreign governments, foreign companies (including foreign subsidiaries of Canadian firms), international organizations, non resident foreign nationals and Canadians studying or teaching abroad, are included in this sector.
