Recent trends in science education associated with the evolution of science curriculum development centers in the Asian region are reviewed. These trends, and factors influencing them, are discussed under the following headings: science education and curriculum development centers; adaptation phase; shifts toward indigenous programs; science education, rural development, and informal education; science equipment; decentralization and dissemination; regional cooperation; and research and development. The role in promoting the trends at three centers is also discussed. The centers include Science Education Centre of the University of the Philippines and the Institute for the Promotion of Teaching Science and Technology of Thailand (examples of national centers) and the regional Centre for Science and Mathematics Education, set up as a training institution for key science education personnel throughout the region. Establishment of the centers, science education research projects, curriculum and instructional material development, science equipment, and teacher training are among the topics discussed. Major accomplishments/progress in science education in southeast Asia are summarized in a concluding section, indicating among others that in-service teaching training has formed a vital and integral part of curriculum development/implementation and is a vital cornerstone in the new programs developed. (Author/JN)