Florida National Universitys Insufficient Research Funding

Table of Contents

Introduction
Argument 1
Argument 2
Conclusion
Works Cited

Introduction

One of the functions of universities is to generate knowledge through research (Brennan, King, and Lebeau 11). While this function is typically assumed by research universities, other educational facilities must recognize the role of research in students education and teachers development. The lack of sufficient research funding at Florida National University contributes to the national innovation deficit and negatively affects the quality of education.

Argument 1

Poor research funding is the main cause of innovation deficit. Many of todays technologies are the result of student and faculty research performed at universities worldwide. Economists argue that the current GDP of the United States is largely the result of past investments in research (Abazorius par. 6). As society is faced with numerous problems, from the discrepancies in the quality of healthcare to climate change and sustainable development, university research should be used as a cost-effective tool that could bring the United States some much-needed innovations. While research does not always provide direct answers, it can provide the evidence necessary to make informed decisions. Research drives innovation and provides a store of knowledge the society can tap into to find solutions to these and many other problems. However, the highest quality research needs appropriate support to succeed. This support comes in the form of funding, which can be used to build laboratories, libraries, buy the necessary equipment, or provide incentives for students and teachers to engage in research. Without sufficient funding, no infrastructure could be leveraged to generate knowledge and innovation, and no resources which could be tapped into to advance science. As such, poor funding limits research availability and quality, and therefore, contributes to the lack of new technologies.

Argument 2

Faculty and student research play an essential role in facilitating a differentiated and effective academic environment. While research brings numerous potential benefits to society, the direct benefit of research is that it is a great educational tool. Research is about identifying trends, analyzing their impact, exploring future possibilities, and applying creative and critical thinking in the process of creating a new understanding. As such, student research allows students not only to develop a better understanding of the subject but also to become actively engaged with science by performing analysis informed by data and experiment. One of the well-known problems in the field of education is the fading interest of the students and research is a viable solution for that. Research in various fields may allow some students to recognize their passion and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the future. Also, faculty research can be used to review and inform the improvement of educational practices. Education is an ever-evolving field, and the implementation of new, effective educational strategies is impossible without research as it provides evidence for what practices work better. Evidence-based practice is the foundation of quality education, and to develop new teaching methods, teachers should be provided with sufficient resources to conduct quality research. Educators can use research to improve the academic environment by using the best research evidence in their practice and providing new opportunities for students academic growth.

Conclusion

Research is the foundation of innovation which leads to economic growth and improved social welfare. In todays world, universities have the responsibility for broadening the pool of knowledge and performing research to facilitate national development. Florida National University has to address the issue of research funding immediately or be held accountable for the resources it consumes.