Research
Sponsored Research means all research and development activities that are sponsored by federal and non-federal agencies and organizations. This term includes activities involving the training of individuals in research techniques where such activities utilize the same facilities as other research and development activities and where such activities are not included in the instruction function.
Research seeks fuller knowledge of a subject and involves investigation aimed at the discovery of new facts or revision of accepted theories. Research projects may include laboratory work, testing and evaluation, questionnaires, pre- and post-tests, and statistical analysis.
Instruction
Sponsored Instruction means the teaching and training activities of an institution established by grant, contract, or cooperative agreement. These activities may be offered for credits toward a degree or certificate or on a non-credit basis, and may be offered through regular academic departments or through separate divisions, such as summer school or extension. (Research training is not included; it is included under Research above.)
Instruction is used when the primary purpose of the project involves training, curriculum development, instruction, demonstration, or efforts to improve pedagogical methods. Instructional projects may include some elements of research, particularly if new techniques of instruction or curriculum content are being developed.
Examples
- Any project for which the purpose is to instruct any student at any location; recipients of this instruction may be UMass students or staff, teachers or students in elementary or secondary schools, or the general public
- Curriculum development projects at any level, including projects which involve evaluation of curriculum or teaching methods; such evaluation may be considered “research” only when the preponderance of activity is data collection, evaluation and reporting
- Projects which involved UMass students in community service activities for which they are receiving academic credit.
- Activities funded by awards to departments or schools for the support of students
- Dissertation work funded by grants, including grants for travel in relation to a dissertation
- Programs bringing local students on campus for classes
- General support for the writing of textbooks or reference books, video or software to be used as instructional materials.
Other Sponsored Activities
Other Sponsored Activities are programs and projects sponsored by federal and non-federal agencies which involve the performance of work other than instruction and organized research.
Examples include health service projects, community service programs, non-credit community education, and conferences.
