A survey was conducted to identify problems associated with cooperative research projects between universities and local education agencies (school districts); personal and organizational census data were also collected. Sixty-seven research directors from large city schools, 59 researchers in local agencies, and 24 college of education deans responded to the 86-item scaled and open-ended survey. The relationship was characterized by misunderstanding and mutual recrimination about research design and needs. Some benefits were cited, however, such as: closer contact for the university with reality; technical help at reduced cost; credibility of an outside authority; and higher funding of collaborative projects. An organized group of school researchers (Division H of the American Educational Research Association) made recommendations for fostering cooperation between local education agencies and university researchers: early and sincere involvement of both parties; shared decision-making; clearly specified policies and procedures; fund raising; involvement of research journals; and establishment of an awards program. About 100 open-ended survey responses are included; four exemplary projects are briefly described. (ClPO)