ABSTRACT
This chapter takes up conceptual issue, and attempts to review and synthesise the detailed empirical evidence generated by the European network's research on the nature and extent of regional collective learning mechanisms or processes operating in the European high-technology Small and Medium Sized Enterprise (SME) clusters studied. A key aim is to assess what particular and identifiable processes are important for collective learning, and how far these clusters can be viewed as 'learningregions' characterised by active and effective processes of regional collective learning. The chapter discuses the importance as a regional collective learning mechanism of the movement of key individuals and skilled workers, carrying technological and managerial knowhow and 'embodied expertise', between local firms and other organisations. The key regional collective learning processes identified by this research – new firm spin-off and entrepreneurship, labour market recruitment, and networking, collaboration and linkage – arguably lie at the heart of the recent evolution and competitive success of the successful regional clusters studied.
