This empirical study demonstrates that teaching and research can be leveraged synergistically and contribute to research outputs. In particular, it is critical to consider the nature of the learning environment associated with the teaching effort. First, by distinguishing between graduate and undergraduate education, the authors conclude that involvement in graduate teaching can play a significant role in driving research output. Moreover, both undergraduate and graduate students can provide a valuable contribution to the productivity of faculty members if integrated in research activities where teaching and research are combined within a learning perspective. (Contains 2 tables.)