In an era of ever-shrinking dollars for education and especially for educational research, one must ask the question, "Does the proposed research add value to agricultural education?" Although it may not be possible to answer the question completely, a framework can be developed within which the answer can be pondered. Researchers, therefore, should contemplate seven key points: (1) understand the concept of value added; (2) be prepared to define the benefits; (3) calculate the costs; (4) focus on the elements that can be influenced; (5) make research in agricultural education more programmatic; (6) invite analysis and synthesis; and (7) do research on the cutting edge. Finally, when any research effort is contemplated, the researcher should ask the question, "So what?" Eventually, the research will begin to take on a value that the public can perceive and resources to continue it will be made available. (KC)