Higher Education, Research and Extension Systems in the United States and Chinese Taipei

Abstract

The higher education systems in both the United States and Chinese Taipei function similarly in teaching, research and extension. The higher education system offers not only baccalaureate degree but also post graduate Master¡¦s and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The land-grant system in the United States was created in 1862 for research in the experiment stations under the Morrill Act and in 1914 for the extension service under the Smith-Lever Act. Agriculture-related research in Chinese Taipei is carried out by Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute, District Agricultural Research and Extension Stations, and academic and private institutions. The extension service in Chinese Taipei, however, is primarily provided by District Agricultural Research and Extension Stations and farmers¡¦ associations. Despite the differences in the systems of higher education, research and extension service in the United States and Chinese Taipei, both systems function adequately in assisting farmers in their respective country. The challenges that both systems are facing are discussed.