New devices based on quantum computing or DNA computing could make the information revolution of today look like a paltry beginning. And, understanding of the social and cultural impacts of technological change could change the scope and manner in which new technologies are deployed. My point is that the research investments that government agencies make across this state don't end with the university that receives a NSF grant, or the company that's won an ATP competition, or the small business with an SBIR award. These investments are catalysts. They shape our economic future through new knowledge that pays for itself again and again and again.
Economic value comes from knowledge.
And knowledge comes from people. So if there's one thing that's as important as research to our nation's economic future, it's education. We have a paradoxical situation in this country. We lead the world in innovation and discovery, but we're trailing our industrial competitors in science and math learning at the K-12 level. As Director of NSF, I am committed to strengthening science and math education at all levels, and getting our scientists more involved in the education process.