Better Communication Could Help Clear Up Confusion Over 'Silly' Research Grants

摘要

National Science Foundation grants to support social science research are often termed silly because the reason for the research is not made clear. The Foundation needs to do a better job of communicating to the Congress and the public why these grants are awarded. The Foundation should require each Program Award Recommendation for a social science research grant to explain, in clear, simple language, why the project is important and what long-term benefits may result. Summaries of Completed Projects should explain the broader social and human implications of the research findings. The Foundation also should clear up the confusion over the proper documents to use in explaining why the grants are awarded.