Our main objective was to establish a Behavioral Science Laboratory at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University and to train a team of competent researchers in the field of behavioral science. Through this project, we sought to strengthen the link between academia and industry, support the development of new products and services, and enhance vocational education and training to better meet labor market needs. Additionally, we aimed to foster innovation, improve quality assurance in VET, and create sustainable educational resources, including tailored educational materials, to ensure ongoing benefits for students, researchers, and the wider community.Travel support was provided through DAAD with German partners.A follow-up Erasmus+ project led by Germany was later approved.
We applied for this project to address a critical skills gap between academia and industry at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University and the regional ecosystem, particularly for startups and businesses in Çanakkale Technopark. There was a clear need to train qualified research personnel capable of conducting behavioral research at ÇOMU and to establish the university’s first Behavioral Science Laboratory. By bridging this gap, we aimed to equip students, researchers, and local enterprises with the latest knowledge and methods in behavioral science, fostering innovation, supporting regional development, and enhancing employability for graduates.