Talking Points on the Connection between Research and Education
Provided by the Council on Undergraduate Research

• Specifically mention any federally funded grants you or your institution have received in the last year.  Note the funding agency, the amount of the grant, and the grant activity.  Thank the Congressperson or Senator and provide any information you can about the impact of the grant on your campus.  You can find out about grants received from the sponsored research officer on your campus or the development office.
• Students learn science by doing science
• Undergraduate research increases participation in science by women and minorities
• Research-active faculty members teach with freshness and vigor, as well as more current knowledge
• Research-active faculty are public communicators of science and technology
• It is a privilege to conduct research with the public’s support
• We appreciate the major role that the National Science Foundation has played in supporting undergraduate research, and we thank Congress for its support of NSF
• Science and technology partnerships between government, colleges and universities, and local industries provide opportunities for young people to enter science and technology fields
• Federal laboratories are a wonderful opportunity for internships and summer research experiences by undergraduates and their mentors

Special issue that could come up in conversation with Representatives or their Staff:

• Hands-on scientific study goes beyond what can be done by computer simulation, by distance learning, or traditional lectures

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