This paper reviews the four research and development (R&D) analyses that were presented as a rationale for the National Institute of Education's (NIE) 1973 agenda. Three of the chapters describe (1) the consensus cncerning goals, (2) the manner in which the different analyses move from goals to a list of programs, and (3) the need for more exploration of each area before programs are actually designated and the criteria for final program selection. Another chapter integrates suggestions from each of the papers to present a single list of program areas. Report summaries include several tables describing some suggested budgets and goals of the NIE office. (Author/DN)