A major study of Canadian science education was undertaken in 1980 to establish a documented basis for describing the present purposes and general characteristics of science teaching in Canadian schools, to provide an historical analysis of science education in Canada, and to stimulate active deliberation concerning future options for science education in Canada. The research provided a database for a nationwide series of conferences which were held to discuss the questions raised by the study and to explore future directions for science education in Canada. This document, a summary of the study, is designed for a more general audience. Its purpose is to encourage continuing deliberation about the issues by science educators and others concerned with the quality of Canadian science education. Major areas addressed include: (1) curriculum guidelines (what they prescribe); (2) textbooks (what they teach); (3) teachers (who they are and what they think); and (4) classrooms (how science is actually taught). Each of these areas is followed by a list of issues to consider. (JN)